William Howland

William A. Howland (1 May 1871 – 3 May 1945) was an American operatic bass, voice teacher, composer, conductor and university administrator. He was the head of the music department at the University of Michigan from 1900-1914. In 1914 he co-founded the Detroit Institute of Musical Arts; serving as the school's vice-president and head of the vocal department until his death 31 years later.

Early life and education Born in Worcester, Massachusetts, Howland was the youngest of six children born to Emma Lane Howland and her husband Dr. Asa Allan. His mother was a direct descendant of John Howland, a pilgrim who travelled from England to North America on the Mayflower, signed the Mayflower Compact, and helped found Plymouth Colony. His father was a prominent dental surgeon and was notably the first president of the Dental Association of New England. William served as president of the Pilgrim John Howland Society from 1924 to 1945.

After attending grammar school and graduating from English High School in Worcester in 1889, Howland moved to New York City, where he pursued music studies, sang in various churches, and also taught singing through 1894. In 1894 he returned to Worcester

In 1900 he moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan, to assume the post of director of the music department at the University of Michigan. He remained in that role until the conclusion of the 1913–1914 school year. He notably served as the conductor of the University of Michigan Men's Glee Club from 1911 to 1914. In 1914 he co-founded the Detroit Institute of Musical Arts which is now a part of Marygrove College. He served as the school's vice-president and head of the vocal department until his death in 1945.