The July 5th a
nnouncement of the passing of Brazeal Dennard, esteemed choral conductor and educator, marked a significant event in the choral music history of Michigan. A lifelong resident of Detroit, Mr. Dennard excelled throughout his life as a music educator, a music supervisor, a church choir director and as the founder and director of the Brazeal Dennard Chorale. In addition, he was a longtime leader and advocate for the National Association of Negro Musicians and the Detroit Musicians Association. In 1992, ACDA-Michigan awarded him the “Maynard Klein Award” for a lifetime of service to our profession. In 2008, he received the Detroit Urban League’s “Distinguished Warrior Award”, honoring his contribution to choral music, education and service to the community.
He founded the Brazeal Dennard Chorale in 1972 with the purpose of promoting the music of African American composers and to perpetuate the heritage of the Negro Spiritual. His deep love of the Spiritual as an important musical genre was realized in his arrangements, workshop sessions and guest conducting appearances. He played an important role in the founding of the Annual Detroit Symphony Classical Roots Concert. In these concerts, the DSO and the Brazeal Dennard Chorale performed numerous works of African American composers. Many were premier performances.
His funeral service was an inspiring celebration. Of course, great choral music played a prominent role. The hymn singing was thrilling. Each of the speakers also told stories of Brazeal Dennard the man, and his relentless love and affection for others. He was described as an unforgettable teacher, a treasured mentor and a beloved friend. The choral community of ACDA-Michigan grieves his loss along with his family and friends. ACDA-Michigan is proud to say that Brazeal Dennard was one of our own. Farewell, dear friend.
