Chorus America has announced the recipients of its 2024 awards program, recognizing Chorus America members for a broad range of achievements in choral music and service to the choral field. Awards celebrate meaningful contributions from remarkable individuals, choruses, and organizations.
“Chorus America is thrilled to honor these exceptional choruses and choral leaders who enrich our communities and inspire us through their outstanding work,” said Chorus America president and CEO Catherine Dehoney. “Their artistry, dedication, and the joy they bring to their work moves the choral field forward.”
Award winners will be recognized at the 2024 Chorus America Conference in Atlanta, Georgia on June 6-8. Download the full press release here.
Michael Korn Distinguished Service Award: John Alexander
The Michael Korn Distinguished Service Award recognizes a member whose long-term service to the choral field has significantly furthered Chorus America’s mission and vision.
John Alexander is the 2024 recipient of the Michael Korn Distinguished Service Award in recognition of his immense contributions to the choral field and his tireless advocacy for the artistry of singers and conductors. Alexander is artistic director emeritus of the Pacific Chorale, an organization that grew into one of the foremost professional-core symphonic choirs in the U.S. during his extraordinary 45-year tenure as artistic director. A passionate educator, Alexander taught as professor of music in the California State University system for 46 years, establishing respected choral programs at Cal State Northridge and Cal State Fullerton and training generations of artists who have gone on to achieve international careers of significance. Alexander served multiple terms on Chorus America’s board, including as board president, and has long been a driving force behind Chorus America’s conducting programs, most recently the Choral-Orchestral Conducting Academy. Alexander’s achievements are a testament to a life dedicated to evolving the choral art form.
“I am deeply touched that Chorus America has chosen to honor me with this prestigious award,” said Alexander. “One of the greatest joys of my life has been my long tenure of being a part of the Chorus America family. Thank you, Chorus America, for advocating so beautifully for all of us, helping each of us pursue our unique individual missions in furthering the art of choral singing.”