Role

:

Composer Conductor

Birth

:

1902

Death

:

1978

Genre

:

Opera

 

Peter J. Wilhousky was a renowned American composer, arranger, and choral conductor who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. He was born on July 13, 1902, in Passaic, New Jersey, to Ukrainian immigrant parents. His father was a church choir director, and his mother was a singer, which exposed him to music at an early age. Wilhousky's musical talent was evident from a young age, and he began studying piano and violin at the age of six. He later attended the Juilliard School of Music in New York City, where he studied composition and conducting. After completing his studies, he worked as a choral conductor and arranger for various organizations, including the NBC Symphony Orchestra and the New York Philharmonic. One of Wilhousky's most significant contributions to classical music was his arrangement of the Ukrainian folk song "Shchedryk," which he titled "Carol of the Bells." The arrangement was first performed by the NBC Symphony Orchestra in 1936 and has since become a holiday classic, performed by countless choirs and orchestras around the world. The arrangement features a four-part choral harmony and a distinctive bell-like melody that has become synonymous with the holiday season. Wilhousky's other notable works include his arrangement of "Battle Hymn of the Republic," which he titled "The Battle Hymn of the Republic (Glory, Glory, Hallelujah)," and his choral arrangement of Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture." His arrangement of "Battle Hymn of the Republic" has become a staple of patriotic celebrations in the United States, while his choral arrangement of the "1812 Overture" has been performed by numerous choirs and orchestras around the world. In addition to his work as an arranger, Wilhousky was also a prolific composer, with works ranging from choral pieces to orchestral compositions. Some of his notable compositions include "The Lord's Prayer," "The Battle of Jericho," and "The Gift of Love." His compositions often featured religious themes and were characterized by their rich harmonies and intricate melodies. Wilhousky's contributions to classical music were recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his career. He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1971 and received the National Medal of Arts in 1989. He also received honorary doctorates from several universities, including the University of Notre Dame and Seton Hall University. Despite his many accomplishments, Wilhousky remained humble and dedicated to his craft throughout his life. He continued to conduct and arrange music well into his 80s and remained an active member of the music community until his death on October 3, 1978, at the age of 76. In conclusion, Peter J. Wilhousky was a talented composer, arranger, and choral conductor who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His arrangements of "Carol of the Bells" and "Battle Hymn of the Republic" have become beloved classics, while his compositions continue to be performed by choirs and orchestras around the world. His dedication to his craft and his humble spirit continue to inspire musicians and music lovers alike.

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