February 28, 2019 - Issue: Vol. 165, No. 37 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 1st Session

[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E231]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING DR. ADOLPHUS HAILSTORK

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. PAUL TONKO

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 28, 2019

  Mr. TONKA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the work of Dr. 
Adolphus Hailstork.
  Dr. Hailstork is a leading composer and professor who has dedicated 
his life to the study, composition, and continuation of musical 
excellence. He has written numerous works for chorus, chamber 
ensembles, piano, organ, band and orchestra, which are performed and 
celebrated around the world.
  Born in Rochester, NY, but raised in Albany, Dr. Hailstork's 
remarkable musical career can be traced back to his membership in the 
historic Cathedral of All Saints Choir of Men and Boys, the oldest 
continually performing ensemble of its kind in the United States. His 
membership in the Choir was the catalyst to more than seventy years of 
creative expression and musical prowess.
  Since his time with the Choir, he has pursued a career in music with 
relentless dedication. During his years at Albany High School, he began 
composing music regularly. He received degrees from Howard University 
and the Manhattan School of Music and studied in France with famed 
composer and teacher Nadia Boulanger before receiving his doctorate 
from Michigan State University in 1971.
  What makes Dr. Hailstork truly admirable is not only his aptitude in 
making music, but his desire and skill in teaching it, passing on his 
substantial knowledge to future musicians. He has served as professor 
at Youngstown State University in Ohio and at Norfolk State University 
in Virginia. Currently, he works as a professor of music and Composer-
in-Residence at Old Dominion University in Norfolk.
  One of the most incredible aspects of music is its ability to connect 
individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Dr. Hailstork's work 
exemplifies this idea. He has studied, composed and taught a vast range 
of musical styles and genres, focusing on classical compositions with a 
blend of African American and European traditions. His masterful 
compositions have been performed by the New York Philharmonic, Chicago 
Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic and numerous other prestigious 
orchestras.
  This year marks the 60th anniversary of Dr. Hailstork's graduation 
from Albany High School. Since his time in New York's Capital Region, 
he has left an imprint on the districts culture and society that will 
not soon fade.
  On behalf of the United States Congress, it is my great honor and 
privilege to recognize Dr. Hailstork's accomplishments. I offer my 
gratitude for his immeasurable dedication and wish him continued 
success in the years to come.

                          ____________________