Dr. George Umberson, 88, passed away on October 16, 2021. George's entire life was defined by his passion for, and involvement in music. He demonstrated many musical talents as a youngster and started on the saxophone at age eight, advancing to the high school band that same year. George started piano at age nine, and went on to win many regional and national contests, adding trombone to his repertoire in the 8th grade, playing it throughout high school and college. As a young man, George became an outstanding vocalist and performed widely as a recitalist and guest soloist with numerous orchestras. He then went on to become an internationally recognized conductor, music educator and administrator.



His professional involvements included Professor of Choral Music at Pepperdine University, Eastern New Mexico University, West Texas A&M University, and ASU.



He came to ASU in 1977 as Chair of the Department of Music and oversaw the creation of the School of Music. He retired in 2003. George was a guest conductor in over 40 states and countries in Europe and Asia. His 200 voice Choral Union at ASU sang with orchestras throughout Europe and Australia. The number of music majors at ASU grew from 300 to 800 during his time as Director, and he was instrumental in the construction of the beautiful music building that sits on Mill Avenue. Under his guidance the ASU School of Music was recognized as one of the five outstanding music schools in the United States. George was extremely active in the American Choral Director Association and served as Southwest Division President.



At Eastern New Mexico he had two entertainment groups selected to perform with the USO throughout Asia and the Northeast command. His crowning achievement came in June 2015 when he was invited to conduct a choir at Carnegie Hall in New York.



George was a member of ASURA serving as a board member from 2005-2008, and treasurer from 2006-2008. A Video History interview was conducted in 2006 and is available for viewing at https://asura.asu.edu/george-umberson-0 .



George is survived by his wife Darlene, three daughters, seven grandchildren,  and other relatives. In lieu of flowers donations in George's honor may be made to Eastern New Mexico University Choral Department . Designation is OTHER and description box is ENMU CHOIRS. By mail: ENMU Foundation, Station 8; 1500 S. Ave K; Portales, NM; 88130 and designate the gift to ENMU CHOIRS. (Source: ASU Foundation)