University of Texas choral conductor Morris Beachy dies

Baritone and founder of 9 choral ensembles passes away at age
82

By Michael Barnes

AUSTIN, TX — Morris Beachy, who developed the University of
Texas choral program and conducted several Austin civic choirs,
died in his sleep Sunday from complications of Alzheimer’s disease.
He was 82.

Beachy performed as a baritone soloist in operas, oratorios and
recitals. He began conducting in 1947 and earned the first
doctorate in voice from the University of Southern California. In
1957, he began to build UT’s choirs.

“He is deserving of any and all accolades,” said Marty
McAllister, who toured Europe with Beachy’s college choirs.

Known as a firm disciplinarian, Beachy founded nine ensembles,
including the UT Chamber Singers, A Capella Choir, Longhorn
Singers, University Chorus and Austin Choral Union, which sang with
the Austin Symphony Orchestra. He also served as chorus master for
Austin Lyric Opera during its first six seasons.

“Beachy’s tough and demanding approach enabled me to gain the
self-appreciation and personal fortitude I needed to become a
successful conductor,” said Barry Scott Williamson, now a choral
conductor in New York.

Beachy retired from teaching in 1993 as the Morton H. Meyerson
Professor Emeritus. Meyerson, former chairman and CEO of Perot
Systems Corp. and namesake for Dallas’ symphony center, was one of
the professor’s most loyal students. Beachy folded his last big
choir, Austin Choral Artists, in 2002 but remained active as a
guest conductor.