TALLADEGA — The Talladega College Choir recently brought home top honors from the American Choral Directors Association.

The choir won the rank of superior, which is first place, during its performance at the Collegiate Choral Festival in Birmingham on Nov. 12. Talladega College President Billy Hawkins said he is honored that the choir is being recognized this way.

“Talladega is known for its world-renowned choir,” he said. “The group is built on a foundation of performers who studied and honor their craft. It is with pride that I can say that the choir is one of the shining beacons at the college.”

This was the first year Talladega College’s 68-student choir has competed in the annual competition. Choir director Lindy McLeod said she was excited for the students’ victory, as they proved their capabilities their first time among ACDA.

McLeod also serves as the state’s coordinator for ACDA activities.

She said the choir had been practicing for the festival since around the time school started in the fall. She said they studied literature for their selections and worked until they got the vocals just right.

“I’m very proud of the students showing all of the hard work and dedication for their music. We practice every day,” McLeod said.

More than 16 world-class choirs competed at the festival, including regional groups from the University of Alabama, Troy State University, the University of Montevallo, Samford University, Jefferson State Community College and Alabama A & M University among others.

Talladega College was judged to have given the most outstanding performance. Factors that contributed to the victory included superior ratings by the judges, no comments or errors in performance and no requests for repeats in the selections.

“Talladega College Choir was the most energetic and enthusiastic choir competing in this competition,” said Kenneth Fulton, a choral clinician with the festival.

The choir received standing ovations after each performance, including such from competing choirs.

The choir performed musical selections “Soon Ah Will Be Done,” “My Soul’s Been Anchored in the Lord” and the “Hallelujah Chorus.”

McLeod was also commended at the festival for her direction of these selections and for her choral leadership.

The choir has been a staple of Talladega College since 1877. It’s currently practicing for its annual Christmas concert on Dec. 6.