Dave Stevens began his great barbershopping career singing baritone on radio in "The Hometown Quartet" in San Francisco in 1950. With that experience and his strong background of college musical training, he was asked to direct barbershop choruses in San Francisco, Marin, and Berkeley. At one time he was directing the three choruses, plus a Sweet Adeline chorus and other singing groups as well. In 1957 he directed the Berkeley chorus to the Society's International Championship. Those who have sung under Dave's direction are in awe of his talents. He could correct you in a way that wouldn't upset you and he had a rare gift of relaxing a chorus before it was to compete.
Dave started the Frisco Four quartet, but family and other local obligations caused him to step aside when it was selected for the road company of the Music Man. In 1969, Dave joined the SPEBSQSA staff in Kenosha, Wisconsin, where his arranging and teaching talents and great sense of humor were put to good use until his retirement in 1985. His last years were spent in Hawaii.
Dave died on May 8th, and it is to him we dedicate this convention. Dave, if you're listening up there, we love you and miss you, and we thank you for the major impact you have had on our wonderful hobby.
To further preserve Dave Stevens' memory, an endowment fund has been established with all monies going to Heritage Hall, our Society's Historical Museum. Donations may be mailed to the Dave Stevens Endowment Fund, Heritage Hall, SPEBSQSA, 6315 Third Avenue, Kenosha, WI 53143
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