Tom Somerville Memorial Concert

Dr. Thomas Somerville passed away in February of 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic was starting. Because of the pandemic, we were unable to hold a memorial service for Dr. Somerville at Occidental until this year. The current Occidental College Glee Club, combining with Glee Club alumni who sang with Dr. Somerville, will pay tribute to Oxy’s long-time director of the Glee Club in a concert of requested favorite choral pieces. Former college organist James Walker will provide organ meditations by J.S. Bach and Maurice Duruflé.

Dr. Somerville was Occidental's director of choral activities from 1977 to his retirement in 2000. In addition to directing the Glee Club, he also served for a time as chair of the Music Department and taught courses in conducting and music literature. During this time he also served as the minister of music for the First Congregational Church of Los Angeles, as well as being active with the Oregon Bach Festival. You can read more about Dr. Somerville in "A Truly Inspired Leader," Occidental Magazine (Winter 2020).

The concert is free and no registration required.