Role

:

Composer Conductor

Country

:

Canada

Birth

:

February 28, 1950 in Faribault, MN

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

Stephen Chatman is a Canadian composer who was born on November 28, 1950, in Faribault, Minnesota. He grew up in California and began his musical studies at an early age. He attended the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he earned his Bachelor of Music degree in 1972. He then went on to study at the University of Michigan, where he earned his Master of Music degree in 1974 and his Doctor of Musical Arts degree in 1978. Chatman's early compositions were influenced by the music of Aaron Copland and Igor Stravinsky. He was also influenced by the music of jazz musicians such as Duke Ellington and Thelonious Monk. His early works include a number of chamber music pieces, as well as works for orchestra and choir. One of Chatman's most notable works is his choral cycle, "Due North," which was commissioned by the Vancouver Chamber Choir in 1999. The cycle consists of six pieces, each of which is based on a different Canadian folk song. The cycle has been performed by choirs all over the world and has become one of Chatman's most popular works. Another notable work by Chatman is his opera, "The Overcoat," which is based on the short story by Nikolai Gogol. The opera premiered in 2018 and has been praised for its inventive use of music and staging. In addition to his work as a composer, Chatman is also a respected music educator. He has taught at the University of British Columbia since 1976 and has mentored many young composers over the years. Throughout his career, Chatman has received numerous awards and honors for his work. He has been awarded the Order of Canada, the country's highest civilian honor, and has been inducted into the Royal Society of Canada. He has also received the Canadian Music Centre's Composer of the Year award and the British Columbia Arts Council's Lifetime Achievement Award. Chatman's music is known for its accessibility and its ability to connect with audiences. His works often incorporate elements of folk music and jazz, as well as classical music traditions. His music has been described as "lyrical" and "evocative," and he is considered one of Canada's most important contemporary composers. In conclusion, Stephen Chatman is a highly respected composer and music educator who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His works are known for their accessibility and their ability to connect with audiences, and he has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the field.

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