S. Norman Park founded the Dayton Boys Choir, Inc. in 1943. Mr. Park, assisted by his wife Mickey organized the Choir and directed it for twenty-three years. At the time he founded the choir, Mr. Park was supervisor of music for the Dayton Public Schools. His vision was to provide an outlet for the vocal talents of young gentlemen from the Dayton, Ohio area.
As a Rotarian, Mr. Park was able to secure the support of the Rotary Club of Dayton to sponsor the newly formed choir, which was known as the Dayton Rotary Boys Choir. During his years of leadership, the choir made numerous tours in the U.S. and abroad and gained national and international fame. The beneficial influence Mr. Park and Mickey had on the lives of the choir members is immeasurable. Their personal sacrifices and enthusiastic leadership will always be remembered and appreciated.
Although, admittedly, there are more activities to compete with now than in earlier years, there are still many boys who have the desire to pursue the standard of excellence to which the Dayton Boy's Choir has always aspired. The DBC is confident that we will be able to increase the size of the group through building a relationship with area music educators continuing to work hard in publicity and audience development, as well as establishing a training choir.
