Senate Concurrent Resolution 569

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING DR. DAVID S. BLACKBURN OF NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI, UPON HIS RECEIPT OF THE 2003 GOVERNOR'S EXCELLENCE IN THE ARTS AWARD IN THE CATEGORY OF OPERA AND MUSIC EDUCATION.

WHEREAS, Dr. David S. Blackburn, Professor of Voice and Choral Music at Alcorn State University and founder of the Natchez Opera Festival, is the recipient of the 2003 Governor's Excellence in the Arts Award in the category of Opera and Music Education; and

WHEREAS, Dr. David Blackburn has taught voice for 42 years, with many of his students going on to perform in major opera houses around the world, three of his students winning first place in the Metropolitan Opera finals, and others becoming leading voice professors in major American universities; and

WHEREAS, this year begins his 13th season as founder and General Director of the nationally acclaimed Natchez Opera Festival and listed as one of the top 20 events in the Southeastern United States; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Blackburn received a Bachelor of Music Degree from Westminster Choir College; Masters of Music from Indiana University; and a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Iowa. Before moving to Natchez in 1989, he had vocal studios in Philadelphia and New York and coached singers at the Curtis Institute of Music and the Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia. He has served as head of the Graduated Voice Program at Baylor University, Chairman of the Division of Fine and Applied Arts, Chairman of the Music Department at McMurry University, and Chairman of the Graduate Program of Church Music at Scarritt College. He has received the rare honor of a Distinguished Professor's Chair for outstanding leadership and administration. Currently he is Professor of Voice and Choral Music at Alcorn State University. He also has a distinguished background in church music; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Blackburn often is asked to conduct vocal and choral clinics and serve as judge in vocal competitions. He is a composer and has been published by Chorister's Guild, International, Three Songs of Praise for children's voices and handbells, which proved to be a best seller; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride that we recognize the unique musical talent of this citizen who has brought honor to his community and to the State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend and congratulate Dr. David S. Blackburn of Natchez, Mississippi, upon his receipt of the 2003 Governor's Excellence in the Arts Award in the category of Opera and Music Education, and wish him and his family success in their future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Dr. Blackburn at induction ceremonies on February 28, 2003, and be made available to the Capitol Press Corps.