Role

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Composer

Genre

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Vocal

 

Howard Helvey is a contemporary American composer, arranger, and pianist who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on July 18, 1968, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Helvey grew up in a musical family and began playing the piano at the age of five. His parents were both music educators, and his father was also a church musician, which exposed Helvey to a wide range of musical styles and genres from an early age. Helvey's passion for music continued to grow throughout his childhood and teenage years, and he went on to study music at the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati. There, he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in piano performance and a Master of Music degree in choral conducting. During his time at the university, Helvey was also a member of the Cincinnati Boychoir, which gave him the opportunity to tour internationally and perform in some of the world's most prestigious concert halls. After completing his studies, Helvey began his career as a church musician, serving as the director of music at several churches in the Cincinnati area. He also continued to perform as a pianist and conductor, and his reputation as a talented musician and composer began to grow. In 1998, he founded the Cincinnati-based professional choir, the Vocal Arts Ensemble, which he still directs today. Throughout his career, Helvey has composed and arranged music in a wide range of styles and genres, including choral music, piano music, and hymn arrangements. His compositions are known for their beautiful melodies, rich harmonies, and thoughtful lyrics, and they have been performed by choirs and musicians around the world. One of Helvey's most well-known works is his setting of the hymn "O Love Divine, What Hast Thou Done," which has become a staple in many church hymnals. The piece features a simple, yet powerful melody that is supported by lush harmonies and a gentle piano accompaniment. The lyrics, which speak of God's love and sacrifice, are beautifully expressed through Helvey's music, making it a favorite among church choirs and congregations. Another of Helvey's notable works is his choral setting of the poem "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost. The piece features a hauntingly beautiful melody that is supported by rich harmonies and a flowing piano accompaniment. The lyrics, which speak of the choices we make in life and the paths we take, are beautifully expressed through Helvey's music, making it a favorite among choral groups and audiences alike. In addition to his choral music, Helvey has also composed a number of piano pieces, including his "Piano Sonata No. 1," which features a beautiful, lyrical melody that is supported by rich harmonies and a flowing piano accompaniment. The piece is a favorite among pianists and audiences alike, and it showcases Helvey's talent as both a composer and a pianist. Throughout his career, Helvey has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 2005, he was awarded the prestigious John Ness Beck Foundation Award for his outstanding contributions to church music. He has also been commissioned to compose music for a number of prestigious organizations, including the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the Cincinnati Opera, and the Cincinnati Ballet. Today, Helvey continues to compose and arrange music, and he remains an active performer and conductor.

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