Anthony Tommasini

Allen Crowell ‘59

Anthony Tommasini, chief classical music critic for “The New York Times,” author and pianist, will deliver the Commencement address at Westminster Choir College of Rider University’s 77th Commencement May 12. Allen Crowell ‘59, the Mildred Goodrum Heyward Professor of Choral Music and director of choral studies at the University of Georgia, will receive an honorary degree. The ceremony begins at 4 p.m. in the Princeton University Chapel.

“Anthony Tommasini is widely recognized for his excellent work as a journalist,” said President Rozanski. ”I am certain that our students and guests will significantly benefit from his knowledge and perspective concerning the state of the arts in America today.”

Tommasini’s biography, "Virgil Thomson: Composer on the Aisle" focuses on the composer who was first to create an original American opera inspired by music that was created in the New World and not in Europe. Holding undergraduate and master degrees from Yale University and a doctorate of musical arts from Boston University, he received two grants from the National Endowment for the Arts that funded his performances of Thomson’s music heard on two Northeastern Records compact discs. The two CDs are entitled "Portraits and Self-Portraits," and "Mostly About Love: Songs and Vocal Works."

Crowell earned a bachelor’s degree from Westminster Choir College in 1959 and a master of music degree from The Catholic University of America. He was a member of Westminster’s conducting faculty from 1985-1999 and interim dean from 1992-1994. In 1999, he was appointed the Mildred Goodrum Heyward Professor of Choral Music and director of choral studies at the University of Georgia where he conducts the Concert Choir and the Men’s Glee Club, as well as teaches graduate and undergraduate conducting. For five years he was a member of The United States Army Chorus, serving as bass soloist and enlisted leader. In 1964, he was appointed associate bandmaster of The United States Army Band and director of The United States Army Chorus, a position he held until 1979 when he retired as executive officer and a major.

As a vocal soloist, he has appeared with Washington’s National Symphony, the New Jersey Pops and the orchestras of Baltimore, Annapolis, Trenton and York, PA; as well as with the Paul Hill Chorale, Princeton Pro Musica and the Washington Cathedral Choral Society.

“Audiences around the world have been inspired by his performances as a soloist and as a conductor,” said President Rozanski. “The musicians who have studied with Allen Crowell have extended the impact of his extraordinary talent and commitment to musical excellence, exemplifying the role that Westminster plays in changing lives through music.”