Walter Swan
Walter R. Swan, baritone, hails from Hazlehurst (It), Mississippi. He received degrees from Alcorn State University, Lorman, MS; Mississippi College, Clinton, MS and the University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS. He currently resides in Elizabeth City, NC where he assumed the responsibilities of Assistant Professor of Voice at Elizabeth City State University after serving at Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA; Hampton University, Hampton, VA; Chowan University, Murfreesboro, NC and currently, at Elizabeth City State University as the Director of Choral Activities.
Director of Choral Activities, Dr. Swan implements a comprehensive program of style, performance and academic rigor. Swan's indefatigable prowess to instruct students, build partnerships, and maintain an active performance career has earned him respect and notoriety. His dedication to the advancement of all people provides a landscape that educates and develops those under his tutelage. As a choral director, Swan incorporates performance practices with historical and current events to create synergy for learners. His style of teaching has afforded the Elizabeth City State University Concert Choir and individual students the opportunity to travel and perform throughout the eastern and southern regions and abroad. As a result, the ECSU Concert Choir has performed in historical and monumental venues under his guidance.
An active teacher, vocal coach and performer, Dr. Swan has captivated his classrooms with intriguing knowledge, studied and worked with profound musicians and captivated audiences with his warm vocal timbres and insightful interpretation of music literature. He has been labeled by famous soprano, Leontyne Price to "sings like a prince" and by former Metropolitan Opera affiliate, Charlie Reicker (deceased) as the "Total Package".
His credits include, but are not limited to the following. He has appeared as a guest soloist with: Moses Hogan Singers, New Orleans (recorded); Leigh Morris Chorale, MN; Cantata Chorus, VA; Mississippi Symphony; Mississippi Opera; Greenville Symphony, MS; Virginia Beach Symphony (Symphonicity), Virginia Opera, Norfolk Virginia and in many churches and universities within the Mid-Atlantic and Southern regions. He can be heard; both as a recitalist in many areas, as well as on his recording of spirituals entitled "He's Got the Whole World In His Hands", located on ITunes and at CDBABY.COM.
Mr. Swan continues to strive as an aspiring artist and gives all credit to the Almighty and those who have paved the way to create a less rigorous journey for today's artists. His motto is: I live not only for myself; but, for those who will come after and for those who wish to walk with me along the way.