Henry Chisholm

Teacher

Henry Chisholm moved to New Castle, Delaware from Wilmington, Massachusetts in 1953. Throughout his high school years, he was active in school music programs including accompanying other student groups.

He graduated from William Penn High School in 1957.

With a college degree in Music Education, he began his career as an Elementary Music Teacher in the New Castle Special School District and later moved to William Penn High School in 1965 as Vocal Music Teacher.

Along with fellow music teachers Wallace Pancoast, David Linton, and John Heck, he developed an outstanding music program. During his tenure (1965-1979), the William Penn Department of Music became the largest in the State of Delaware. The curriculum was a music teacher’s dream! The vocal groups included Freshman, Sophomore, Junior/Senior Choruses as well as Concert Choir, Chorale, Ragtime Gals(Girls Ensemble) and The Harmonies (Boy’s Barbershop). The instrumental schedule included Freshman, Sophomore, Concert, Symphonic, Marching, and Dance Bands. With the abundance of students participating in the music program, the music department with the assistance of the drama and art departments, was able to produce outstanding musicals. Audiences and performers alike will long remember productions such as “Lil’Abner” (1970),“SouthPacific” (1974), and “Carousel” (1978). Whether directing a choral group or a musical production, Henry Chisholm instilled a life-long love for musical performance in his students. These were golden years in the history of William Penn’s Music Department. Chisholm continued to serve the Colonial community as the Music Teacher

for the Wallace Wallin School and the John G. Leach School until his retirement in 1991. He left an unmatched legacy at both schools. Since his retirement, Henry Chisholm has continued to direct church choral groups as well as share his talents with students of all ages including those at the Osher Academy of Life-Long Learning. He has been active in the New Castle Hundred Lions Club for more than 40 years as a member and officer. He has worked tirelessly for the Art-On-The -Green event for many years in New Castle. He continues to be a positive influence on all who have known him, worked with him, and experienced his infectious enthusiasm!