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I have a lovely wife - married 22 years now! - and three children: a boy, age 17; and 2 girls, ages 15 and 13. I have played piano since kindergarten, and have won awards in playing and composition throughout high school. I have played the clarinet and have taught myself to play the guitar and the wash-tub bass! -- but my first love is the piano. I have perfect pitch (which is highly over rated)--or nearly so since I never pursued it, finding it much more of a distraction than a blessing. I am trained in the sciences (biochemistry, earth science and computers) as well as in English (pre-Shakespearean to be precise). Right now I write especially for piano and solo instrument, vocal or modern church music. My main thrust in writing church music is to make sure that the words mean something and that the music supports the words. Music is worship. It is an expression of our inner self to those around. Ultimately it is an expression of our profound love for God and our thankfulness. I believe that all music fulfills this goal whether it has words or not. It is just that when there are words attached to the music, it is easier for others to understand the heart's intent.
And to that end, 3 of these hymns have been included in the 2005 Scottish hymnal, Joyous Voices to the Lord. The hymns are: "Salvation's Hymn", "A Tree in a Garden" and "By Grace". (See also Mary Rose Jensen's page for other hymns included in this hymnal.)
I am one of our church's pianists, and one of several that write new music for our church. Some of it is featured here. I hope that you find something here that you can use. If you do, please drop me a line.
At one point I had no appreciation for "modern music," but I am coming around. Currently I am taken with the music of Vaughn Williams. I am also currently fascinated with music for piano & violin or flute--and maybe some combination of small ensembles. I am even trying to learn more about these newer styles & modes of composing. Why? Just because it's there. But while I do this because I enjoy it, it is primarily all for Him. Soli Deo Gloria! | These are just a few of my favorite Sibelius composers -- people whose music I admire (in no particular order), with a sample of what they can offer you:
** Mark Newlon
-Gethsemane's Cup for Choir ** Tobias Lindh
-Studio No. 1 ** Mary Rose Jensen
-Come and Sing ** Ivan Nagy
-DAWN'S ENCHANTMENT ** Leeanne Johnson
-Wise Sunrise
-Lamentation of the Synths
** Gerhard Richter
-The Cataract of Lodore
-RÊVERIE ** Marissa Andronicos
-Walking Spot ** Richard McKinney
-I'll Share My Music ** Ruth Keizer
-Lullaby ** Jordi Vives i Batlle
-Fantasia - Homage for piano ** Rachel Bates
-I Forgot Piano & Violin ** Cliff Soon
-If I Fall |
