A Note from Keith Sturdevant, 2009, in praise of Norman A. Gifford.

The five HPHS choir CDs reveal the consummate artistry of Norman Gifford, as pianist, accompanist, and composer. He and I respected each other's expertise. I trained the choir, while Norman provided an accompaniment consonant in every artistic way with the choir.

When program notes were thought to be helpful, I would call upon Norman to provide them. The printed program always credited him for his erudite words.

I turned to Norman to compose music for the concert choir that could be performed at school events. He exceeded my expectations with every composition. Three of these can be heard in our choir CDs. They deserve to be heard.

I shall ever be grateful to Norman for his outstanding contributions to the HPHS and college choral programs.
                                   Sincerely,

                                   Keith Sturdevant, Director