By Christy Barritt
Correspondent
Scott Williamson used to have dollar signs in his eyes. Today, he has treble clefts.
Williamson, a 1989 graduate of Western Branch High School, at one time had hopes of going into either law or politics. Instead, he followed his heart and pursued music. Now it has led him back to his hometown after years of practicing his skills elsewhere.
Williamson, a sought-after professional tenor, was recently named music director of the Virginia Chorale, the state's only professional choral ensemble.
He first remembers hearing the Chorale when he sang with the Virginia Honors Choir in high school. He said he got a "remarkable education" at Western Branch Middle and High schools under the direction of Dennis Price.
Price, who has since retired from the school system and serves as music director at Churchland Baptist Church, said he's looking forward to having Williamson back in the area.
"Scott has worked very hard," Price said. "He's done very well for himself and well prepared himself for what he's doing."
The 36-year-old has been away from the area for several years, living everywhere from New York City to South Bend, Ind.
Williamson got his bachelor's degree from James Madison University, his master's degree from Westminster Choir College and a doctorate from the University of Maryland. He worked as an associate professor of music at Shepherd University, Washington and Lee University, and Goshen College. He also has traveled the U.S. and Europe, touring with several operas.
Williamson said he's happy to be back close to his family, who still lives in the area.
He said he's seen a change in Hampton Roads since he left.
"During the years which I've been away, fine arts has really blossomed throughout the region," Williamson said. "The Chorale is a real gem in the crown of fine arts in Hampton Roads."
Chorale Executive Director Betsy Fitzgerald called Williamson a great match.
"From the moment Scott began conducting the ensemble, there was an immediate connection and chemistry with the Virginia Chorale singers," Fitzgerald said in a news release announcing his selection. "I cannot imagine a person better suited than Scott Williamson to lead the ensemble and help the Chorale achieve its goals of reaching out to new audiences, building stronger education programs for all ages, and dreaming of what can be."
His duties as musical director for the Chorale will include leading the choir in eight concerts throughout Hampton Roads, the first in October. He also will lead the Chorale's education programs, including the Young Singers Project, an elite high school ensemble.
Williamson will continue to sing at various events in a freelance capacity, including with Opera Roanoke, and he hopes to teach part time at the college level. His wife, Amy, is an accomplished singer and will be giving private voice lessons. The couple hope to rent a house in Norfolk's Ocean View area or Olde Towne Portsmouth.
Williamson said he's looking forward to this new chapter of his life.
"I'm really excited about hearing the singers because they're an incredibly talented group," Williamson said. "The region should be proud of having them in the area. I hope everyone will join in celebrating the group's 25th year."
For more information on the Virginia Chorale, visit www.vachorale.org.
Christy Barritt, 651-6166,
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