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Written by Richard Ingram
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Monday, 12 July 2010 09:48 |
The July 5th a nnouncement of the passing of Brazeal Dennard, esteemed choral conductor and educator, marked a significant event in the choral music history of Michigan. A lifelong resident of Detroit, Mr. Dennard excelled throughout his life as a music educator, a music supervisor, a church choir director and as the founder and director of the Brazeal Dennard Chorale. In addition, he was a longtime leader and advocate for the National Association of Negro Musicians and the Detroit Musicians Association. In 1992, ACDA-Michigan awarded him the “Maynard Klein Award” for a lifetime of service to our profession. In 2008, he received the Detroit Urban League’s “Distinguished Warrior Award”, honoring his contribution to choral music, education and service to the community.
He founded the Brazeal Dennard Chorale in 1972 with the purpose of promoting the music of African American composers and to perpetuate the heritage of the Negro Spiritual. His deep love of the Spiritual as an important musical genre was realized in his arrangements, workshop sessions and guest conducting appearances. He played an important role in the founding of the Annual Detroit Symphony Classical Roots Concert. In these concerts, the DSO and the Brazeal Dennard Chorale performed numerous works of African American composers. Many were premier performances.
His funeral service was an inspiring celebration. Of course, great choral music played a prominent role. The hymn singing was thrilling. Each of the speakers also told stories of Brazeal Dennard the man, and his relentless love and affection for others. He was described as an unforgettable teacher, a treasured mentor and a beloved friend. The choral community of ACDA-Michigan grieves his loss along with his family and friends. ACDA-Michigan is proud to say that Brazeal Dennard was one of our own. Farewell, dear friend. |
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Last Updated ( Monday, 12 July 2010 10:28 )
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Annoucing 2010 ACDA-MI State Convention Headliners |
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Written by Karen S Nevins
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Thursday, 25 February 2010 09:31 |
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Headliners Dr. Jerry BlackstoneGrammy Award winning conductor, Professor Blackstone, is considered one of the country’s leading conducting teachers. He is Director of Choirs and Chair of the Conducting Department at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. Dr. Tim SharpTim Sharp is Executive Director of ACDA. He is also an active choral conductor and researcher/writer, has varied his career with executive positions in both higher education, publishing and recording. Dr. Charlene Archibeque Having recently retired after thirty five years as Professor of Choral Music from San Jose State University, Dr. Archibeque continues to remain active in the choral field as clinician, guest conductor, adjudicator, teacher. As a teacher of teachers her choral workshops throughout the world are acclaimed as “practical, comprehensive, and insightful”. |
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Last Updated ( Tuesday, 06 July 2010 08:48 )
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