Ken Forsyth, Director
Paul Moore, Accompanist
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The Shawnee
Choral Society was established in July 2000 by a group of
singers who believed that the Topeka/Shawnee County area could
support a community chorus of non-auditioned singers. The
Society has thrived since then, with nearly 70 members.
Ken Forsyth is the Director
of Shawnee Choral Society. His music education degrees were from
Southwestern College, BM, in 1961, and Wichita State University,
MME, in 1967. Ken retired from a music teaching career of 43
years; 38 in Kansas public schools and 5 in colleges. In 2001,
Ken was recognized by the Kansas Music Educators Association as
the Outstanding Music Teacher, "Acknowledging a Distinguished
career in Public School Education." In 2002, the Kansas Choral
Directors Association presented him the "Harry Robert Wilson
Award" in recognition for outstanding contribution to the choral
art. Ken has served several churches and is very proud of his
four children and seven grandchildren.
Paul Moore is serving
his second year as Accompanist for the Shawnee Choral Society.
Paul received his Bachelor of Music in Piano from the University
of Oklahoma. Paul also received a Master of Music in Piano from
the University of Michigan. Additional training included studies
at The University of Michigan and three summers of intense piano
study with Frank Mannheimer, protégé and student of Tobias
Matthay.
As an educator Paul taught for
three summers at the National Music Camp in Interlochen,
Michigan. He began his career at Emporia State University in
1960. Paul developed the group piano program at ESU and a course
for beginners in piano delivered through the ESU television
station.
As a solo performer, Paul has
appeared in many community concert programs in several northern
states. He was also a Guest Artist in the Beethoven Festival at
the University of Nebraska.
As a collaborative performer,
Paul was under professional management for three seasons as
accompanist for Robert Anderson, Bass-Baritone. He also
accompanied the ESU choirs in performances at home and abroad.
He has also performed for many faculty and guest artists during
his tenure at ESU. He has the distinction of being the
Pianist/Accompanist for the first ESU Dept. of Music Annual
Music Benefit Concert.
The Shawnee Choral Society is
composed of experienced singers who enjoy singing. With weekly
practices in season, membership is a rewarding commitment. If
you are interested in joining, please email us at
joinscs@shawneechoral.com with a little about you, your
singing experience, and why you would like to join us. |
