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Composer  

 

Steven Behnke was a renowned American composer of classical music, born on August 22, 1958, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was the youngest of three children born to his parents, who were both music teachers. Behnke's parents recognized his musical talent at an early age and encouraged him to pursue his passion for music. Behnke began his musical education at the age of five, studying piano with his mother. He later studied violin and viola, and by the age of 12, he was already composing his own music. Behnke's parents were his first teachers, but he also studied with several other prominent musicians, including John Downey, a composer and conductor, and Richard Davis, a jazz bassist. Behnke attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in composition. He continued his studies at the University of Michigan, where he earned a Master of Music degree in composition. While at Michigan, Behnke studied with several notable composers, including William Bolcom and Leslie Bassett. Behnke's music is characterized by its emotional depth and complexity. He was influenced by a wide range of musical styles, including classical, jazz, and rock. Behnke's compositions often feature intricate harmonies and rhythms, as well as unconventional instrumentation. One of Behnke's most notable works is his Symphony No. 1, which was premiered by the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra in 1992. The symphony is a complex and emotionally charged work that showcases Behnke's skill as a composer. The piece is divided into four movements, each of which explores a different emotional theme. Another notable work by Behnke is his String Quartet No. 1, which was premiered by the Kronos Quartet in 1995. The quartet is a challenging and complex work that showcases Behnke's skill as a composer. The piece is divided into four movements, each of which explores a different emotional theme. Behnke's music has been performed by many prominent orchestras and ensembles, including the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, the Kronos Quartet, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. His music has also been featured in several films and television shows, including the HBO series "Six Feet Under." In addition to his work as a composer, Behnke was also a respected music educator. He taught composition and theory at several universities, including the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the University of Michigan, and the University of California, Berkeley. Behnke's life and career were tragically cut short when he died of cancer on December 31, 2006, at the age of 48. His death was a great loss to the world of classical music, but his legacy lives on through his music and the many students he taught over the years. Behnke's music continues to be performed and admired by musicians and audiences around the world.

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