A native of Boston, Palant is currently Adjunct Assistant Professor of Choral Music at Madonna University in Livonia, Michigan; this month he receives Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Choral Conducting from Michigan State University, where he conducts the Collegiate Choir and the Men's Glee Club. He received a master's degree in choral conducting from Temple University in Philadelphia and a bachelor's degree in music education from the University of Michigan.

The search process, which began in the fall of 2006 and lasted for six months, attracted candidates from across the United States and included several interviews, video/DVD conducting samples, a 2007-08 Season Design Proposal, and audition rehearsals with the singing members of the Chorale in March.