Walter was a professional chorister in Philadelphia for about 40 years, singing with the Philadelphia Singers, the Philadelphia Opera Company and the Philadelphia Orchestra. He has a degree in voice from the Curtis Institute of Music, and degrees in piano and composition from the University of Redlands. He has a degree in Music Therapy from the Combs College of Music and a Music Education equivalency from Temple University. He was a Certified Music Therapist for 15 years, working with multiply handicapped children. He enjoys playing piano in amateur chamber music ensembles. Walter was a Conscientious Objector in the early 60’s, and served his two years of Alternate Service working for the Church of the Brethren in Austria and Germany. He enjoys conversing in German.