In 1948 Dr. John Tegnell formed the University Singers. Members of the ensemble were selected on the basis of voice and musicianship, scholarship, membership in other choral organizations, leadership, and personality. The group grew, under the direction of Ambrose Holford, to present programs of famous composers and to present show tune concerts. They made an annual spring tour of Tennessee and took an international trip every two years. The first international trip was to Mexico in 1957.