The University of Louisville Cardinal Singers, a select chamber choir in the School of Music, were founded in 1970 under the name "University Singers" by the late William C. Lathon, former University of Louisville professor, as an outreach organization for the University. In 1980 they were appointed by then Governor Brown as Commonwealth of Kentucky "ambassadors of good will." Mr. Lathon conducted the University Singers until 1991, when Shirley Wilkinson took over leadership of the ensemble. Dr. Hatteberg became conductor of the Singers in 1997, and changed the name in 1998 to "Cardinal Singers."

The outreach mission of the Cardinal Singers continues as a focus today, and the Singers have made numerous appearances locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally, performing at community functions, official University gatherings, choral conventions, serving as a demonstration choir, and competing on the international stage. Through performances at events such as the 7 th World Symposium on Choral Music in Kyoto, Japan, the Marktoberdorf Chamber Choir Competition in Germany, and the International Choir Olympics, the Cardinal Singers have developed a remarkable international reputation.

The Cardinal Singers rehearse twice a week as a ½ credit, non-required course. The ensemble is open to all students, and members are expected to have advanced sight-reading skills and vocal abilities.