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This prestigious lifetime achievement award given to this conductor is named in honor of Dr. Howard S. Swan who was known as the “Dean of American Choral Directors.” Howard Swan’s life spanned almost the entire twentieth century. It is nearly impossible to overemphasize the far-reaching effects of his artistic command, powerful personality, and humanitarian spirit. After beginning his career as a teacher at Eagle Rock High School, Dr. Swan became the choral director at Occidental College in Los Angeles, a position he held from 1934-1971. The Occidental College Glee Clubs under his direction gained national stature, performing with exquisite tone quality and electric communication. Dr. Swan became the mentor of multiple generations of choral directors. Conductors from all over the country would come to study with him at Oxy, and subsequently at Cal State Fullerton and UC Irvine. His integrity, high view of the artistic/human role of the choral director, and compelling ability to challenge and inspire students and colleagues to greater vision and higher standards awakened the collective conscience of the choral world. It is for this reason that the book containing his writings and speeches is entitled, Conscience of a Profession: Howard Swan, Choral Director and Teacher.
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