Golden Chord Award

Scott Perau Honored with 2025 Golden Chord Award for Exceptional Leadership in Barbershop and Music Education | Red Wing, MN – May 28, 2025

At Red Wing High School’s spring concert on May 28, something truly special happened. Right there in Hovde Hall, in front of his students, colleagues, and family, Scott Perau was surprised with the 2025 Golden Chord Award, our district’s highest honor for a music educator.

Scott’s reaction was genuine, humble, and deeply moving, as you’d expect from someone who has always deflected praise and redirected the spotlight onto his students. But that night, it was his turn. Unbeknownst to him, Jay Althof, quietly slipped into the audience to witness the moment. It was a full-circle celebration of a man who has shaped so many voices, and so many lives.

The Golden Chord Award, presented by the Land O’ Lakes District of the Barbershop Harmony Society, honors an outstanding educator who not only uplifts their school community, but also goes above and beyond to keep the art of barbershop harmony alive and thriving. Scott was nominated by his friend and quartet-mate Jay Fahl, and the committee's decision to honor him was unanimous. The award was presented to him by Jay Altof, close friend and past president of the Land O’ Lakes district.

To further recognize Scott’s impact, we’re also proud to make a $500 contribution to Ovation, Red Wing’s extracurricular vocal ensemble under his leadership. This group has given so many young singers a platform to grow, perform, and connect, and we can’t think of a better way to support the work Scott continues to do outside the school day.

If you know Scott, you know this award isn’t just about one night or one concert. It’s about a career spent mentoring young singers, fostering curiosity, building community, and reminding us that barbershop is about so much more than chords, it’s about connection.

It’s especially meaningful when you consider that around one year ago, Scott brought a high school quartet named Core Four to the Land O’ Lakes District Convention for coaching. One of the singers? His own son, Silas. Watching Scott guide him into the barbershop world with the same care and enthusiasm he gives to every student, that’s the legacy we’re honoring.

Whether he’s directing a concert, coaching a quartet, running warmups at district events, or building relationships with other educators, Scott brings heart, excellence, and joy into everything he touches. His influence ripples across classrooms, choruses, and communities—not just in Red Wing, but throughout the Land O’ Lakes District and beyond.

From all of us on the Next Gen team, and from everyone whose life has been touched by Scott’s music and mentorship: thank you. You’ve helped shape the future of barbershop in ways you may never fully realize.

Congratulations, Scott.

—
Justin La
Chair, Land O’ Lakes Next Gen Committee

Golden Chord Award: Music Educator of the Year

Music is the language of the soul, and the Golden Chord Award - Music Educator of the Year recognizes the best of the best in the Land O'Lakes District. This award is designed to honor music educators who have demonstrated excellence in their profession, commitment to their students, and a passion for the art of singing. The Golden Chord Award aims to recognize those who have instilled the virtues of singing, teamwork, and joy in the creation of vocal harmony in their students. CLICK HERE TO VOTE

Award Candidate Criteria

As we look for our award candidate, we seek music educators who are members of their state/provincial music education associations, current or retired middle or secondary-level (Grades 6-12) public or private school music educators. It is essential to include ways the nominee is making a difference in young people's lives, inspiring a love of vocal harmony, and uplifting spirits. The impact the music educator has made in their school, community, and the lives of their students is the key to being considered for this prestigious award. CLICK HERE TO VOTE

Nominations and Supporting Videos

We invite anecdotes, videos, or testimonials from students, families, and Barbershoppers who have been affected and/or are knowledgeable of the recipient. We want to hear how the music educator has influenced and inspired their students to become better versions of themselves. We want to hear how their passion for music has brought out the best in their students and how their dedication has impacted the community. Please see link to download nomination form: CLICK HERE TO VOTE

Award and Presentations

The award will be presented to the recipient at their school's Spring Music Concert, as well as at the Fall District Convention. The award shall include a plaque designated as the Golden Chord Award along with a check for a minimum of $500 to the school's music program, or if retired, to the school music program of the recipient's choice.

Selection Committee

The selection committee shall be comprised of five (5) members of the District YIH Committee each to serve a 3 year term on a rotating basis. The selection committee will be looking for an exceptional music educator who has demonstrated high values of professionalism, commitment, and inspiration in instilling the virtues of singing, teamwork, and joy in the creation of vocal harmony. Please email the nomination form to the YIH Chair, Justin La: justinla92@hotmail.com.

Recognize The Hard Work of Music Educators

We are looking for an exceptional music educator who has made a positive impact in the lives of their students, community, and school. We want someone who is passionate about music and has instilled that passion in their students. We want someone who has dedicated their life to teaching music and has inspired their students to become better versions of themselves. We encourage everyone to send in their nominations and provide us with anecdotes, videos, or testimonials about how the music educator has impacted their lives. Let us honor those who have dedicated their lives to music and have inspired the next generation of musicians. CLICK HERE TO VOTE

Justin La

Chairman

Land O’ Lakes

Next Gen Committee

(306) 920-0212