The Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra mourns the loss of esteemed choral conductor Dr. Bruce E. Borton. Bruce died at his home in Binghamton on Sunday evening, August 11, 2024 after a lengthy illness. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Nanette, brother Thomas Borton and wife Elissa Ray, and in-laws James and Patrice Witt, along with several nieces and nephews. Bruce was predeceased by his mother, Lois Borton, father Erol Borton and sister Joan Sweeney.

Bruce attended Illinois Wesleyan University, Southern Illinois University, and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. He was the director of Choral Activities at Binghamton University from 1988 to 2017. Among the many choruses he conducted, Bruce led the University Chorus and the Madrigal Choir of Binghamton, and sang in the Trinity Memorial Church Choir for many years. He also collaborated with the Binghamton Philharmonic in several memorable performances, including Beethoven's 9th Symphony, Leonard Bernstein's Chichester Psalms, and Brahms's Ein Deutsches Requiem.

Calling hours will be held Friday, August 23 from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at J.A. McCormack Sons Funeral Home, 141 Main St., Binghamton, and the service will be at Trinity Memorial Church, 44 Main St. on Saturday, August 24 at 2:00 pm, receiving friends at 1:00 pm with reception to follow. Expressions of sympathy in Bruce's memory may be made to Memorial Sloan-Kettering at 1275 York Ave., NY, NY 10065, or Illinois Wesleyan University at 1312 Park St., Bloomington, IL 61701.