America's Choral Ambassador

Book excerpt: John Finley Williamson, born 1887 and died 1964, was the founder of Westminster Choir and co-founder of Westminster Choir College. Dr. Williamson is considered one of the most influential choral conductors of the twentieth century. He was described by the New York Times as the "dean of American choral directors" and "America's Choral Ambassador." Under his leadership, the Westminster Choir toured Europe, Africa, and Asia gaining worldwide acclaim. The Choir performed and recorded with major symphony orchestras with conductors Toscanini, Walter, Stokowski, Von Karajan, Bernstein and others. They are all featured in this volume, which includes newly discovered historical photos and articles from the Talbott Library Special Collections, Westminster Choir College of Rider University. Included in this edition is a complete discography of the Westminster Choir College through 2013. Also there are various previously published articles and lectures by Dr. and Mrs. Williamson.