At 96 years old, Davis Bingham (UC ’52) can still trace the course of his life back to a single decision made in the spring of 1948.
Unsure whether college would even be possible, Bingham was encouraged by his high school chorus teacher, Ruth Lockmiller, to pursue music. Together, they visited the University of Chattanooga, where opportunity, mentorship and generosity would open doors he never imagined.
“I boarded a Greyhound bus bound for Chattanooga and the beginning of a new chapter in my life,” Bingham recalled.
That chapter began with a scholarship to study voice under acclaimed faculty members Emmy Land Wolff and Dr. Werner Wolff. Financial obstacles quickly gave way to unexpected support. After his first semester, Bingham discovered his tuition had been covered by an anonymous donor, allowing him to focus on developing his musical talents and preparing for a career in music.
Finding His Calling Through Music
Music had already begun to shape his future before he arrived on campus. While still in high school, Bingham won the Strobel Award at the Tennessee Division competition of the National Federation of Music Clubs, receiving $100 worth of sheet music.
“I left Nashville with my arms full of new scores and my heart full of possibility, feeling for the first time that music might truly become my life’s calling.”
Following graduation in 1952, Bingham entered the U.S. Army and was stationed in South Korea during the Korean War. There, a chance observation during a church service sparked an idea that would become one of the defining achievements of his military service.
Building the 8th Army Choir
Following graduation in 1952, Bingham entered the U.S. Army and was stationed in South Korea during the Korean War. There, a chance observation during a church service sparked an idea that would become one of the defining achievements of his military service.
Noticing a small choir struggling without leadership, Bingham volunteered to take charge. With approval from Eighth Army Commander Gen. Maxwell D. Taylor, he organized auditions, recruited talented singers from across the command and established what became the 8th Army Choir.
What began with six singers quickly grew into a 36-member ensemble that provided music for worship services and special events. The choir gained recognition throughout the region and eventually advanced to the Allied Forces Far East choral competition in Tokyo.
Competing against military choirs from across the Pacific theater, Bingham’s group earned top honors.
Following his military service, Bingham returned to civilian life and built a career in music and education.
At ninety-six, I have come to understand that a successful life is not one without setbacks. It is a life in which we continue to learn, to love, to serve and to discover reasons for hope.
Davis Bingham (’52)
A Legacy of Hope and Service
The values he developed through military service remained with him long after his Army years ended.
“My years as a choral director, opera performer and education administrator revealed how extraordinary human beings can be when they work together with others toward purposes greater than themselves.”
Now decades removed from that memorable victory, Bingham remains grateful for the education and mentorship he received at UC. Those experiences became a central part of his recently published memoir, Love Lifted Me, which reflects on a life shaped by faith, perseverance and second chances.
“The University of Chattanooga represents an important part of the foundation upon which my life and career were built,” he said. “I could not tell the story of my journey honestly and fully without including the people, experiences, and opportunities that helped shape me there.”
As one of the oldest living alumni of the University of Chattanooga, Bingham has witnessed decades of change at his alma mater.
“It is gratifying to witness how the institution has grown and evolved into the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Universities must continually respond to changing times, new knowledge and the needs of each generation. I am pleased to see UTC carrying forward its mission of preparing young people for meaningful futures.”
He also hopes fellow alumni will remain engaged with the university and continue sharing their experiences with future generations.
“Our memories have value, but they can have even greater value when we pass along the lessons they contain to younger generations.”
His advice for today’s students is simple: pursue excellence, embrace mentors and remember that setbacks do not define a life.
“At ninety-six, I have come to understand that a successful life is not one without setbacks. It is a life in which we continue to learn, to love, to serve and to discover reasons for hope.”