Former Semiahmoo Secondary band guru Dave Proznick was the recipient of an honorary degree from Kwantlen Polytechnic University Oct. 6 – recognizing almost four decades as a teacher in which he inspired literally hundreds of music students.
Many of them have gone on to pursue successful careers in music – among them his own daughters, Juno-nominated bassist Jodi, music teacher Kelly, and son, Vancouver-based drummer Tim.
Proznick received his honorary doctorate at the university’s annual convocation ceremonies, which also honoured former Surrey firefighter Bill McNamara.
He began his career as a musician and educator in Saskatchewan, where he was a bandsman apprentice and later an assistant music director, as well as spending five years on the road as a professional musician.
Among his credits in close to 40 years with the Surrey School Board were a stint as director of award-winning bands at the former White Rock Junior Secondary, followed by his tenure as music program head, and director of many award winning jazz and concert bands, at Semiahmoo.
Since his retirement he has also been director of the community choir The White Rock Singers.
Among his many honours, Proznick has won recognition as a Surrey Civic Treasure for his outstanding contributions to his students and the community and BC Music Educators’ Lifetime Achievement award, and the South Surrey – White Rock Chamber of Commerce Arts and Culture award, as well as being inducted into the hall of fame for the Envision Jazz Festival and receiving international recognition for his expertise as a music educator from Berklee College, Boston, Bandworld Magazine and Jazz Report Magazine.
