An Appreciation: Elmer Thomas, choral arts leader

MILFORD — Elmer Robert Thomas, professor emeritus at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, arrived in Cincinnati in 1966 to found a choral department at CCM. He became a powerful force in Cincinnati’s choral arts community.

Mr. Thomas died of respiratory failure on June 13 at University Hospital. He was 81.  Mr. Thomas established the choral studies division at CCM, elevating the program to international stature during his tenure (1966-95).

As founding director of the Vocal Arts Ensemble (1978-88), he launched a professional chorus that has become one of the city’s major performing groups. He was also chorus master of the May Festival Chorus 1970-73 and 1975, and director of music at Armstrong Chapel United Methodist Church in Indian Hill.