Jack Schwarz

Jack Schwarz, a 1961 Biola graduate, returned as a part-time music faculty member in 1963. He received a full-time contract in 1965, and served as chairman of the Music Department from 1970-2001. In 1998, he accepted the responsibility of serving as Dean of Fine Arts and Communication, and upon his retirement as chairman of the Music Department in 2001, also took on the deanship of the Humanities area. At the end of the Spring semester, 2005, Schwarz stepped down from his full-time responsibilities and moved to 25% time as mentor to the incoming deans of both areas.

The Music Department received first-time accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Music during Schwarz’s time as chairman in 1970, which raised the standards and credibility of the department. Schwarz was also responsible for developing and maintaining a concert series featuring world-renowned musicians, such as pianist Menahem Pressler, in concerts on campus. Other performers include: the Canadian Brass, the Beaux Arts Trio, and soprano, Marilyn Horn. Schwarz also helped establish the Music at Noon series.

Also during Schwarz’s chairmanship, Biola saw the establishment of the long-running and successful Christmas event, “Celebrate the Son,” which was a collaborative work of all the departments in the fine arts area: art, drama, and music. For many years this unique celebration drew thousands of people to campus to experience a program that always kept Christ at the center of the season. It also represented Schwarz’s continued effort to create a sense of community among the fine arts departments.

Schwarz has seen much growth over the years in the Music Department (now the Conservatory of Music). He recalls that in 1964, there was a new music building and approximately 45 mostly organ, choral and vocal music majors, with a few small instrumental ensembles filling out the ranks. Today, with the help of Dr. Schwarz, the Conservatory boasts a completely packed building, with over 125 music majors, 5 degree options, a symphony orchestra, wind ensemble, jazz ensemble and chorale, and numerous small vocal and instrumental ensembles.

For more information see: William Lock Oral History.