Role

:

Composer

Genre

:

Band

 

William Himes is a renowned composer and arranger of classical music, known for his contributions to the brass band and wind ensemble genres. Born on August 19, 1949, in Monroe, Louisiana, Himes grew up in a musical family and began playing the trumpet at a young age. His father was a band director, and his mother was a pianist, so music was always a part of his life. Himes attended Louisiana State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Music Education degree in 1971. He then went on to earn a Master of Music degree in Composition from the University of Miami in 1973. During his time at the University of Miami, Himes studied under the renowned composer and arranger Alfred Reed, who had a significant influence on his musical style. After completing his studies, Himes began his career as a music educator, teaching at various schools and universities throughout the United States. He also served as the Director of Music for The Salvation Army in the United States and Canada from 1980 to 2000, where he was responsible for overseeing the music programs of the organization. Throughout his career, Himes has composed and arranged numerous works for brass band and wind ensemble, many of which have become staples in the repertoire of these ensembles. Some of his most notable works include "Procession to Covenant," "The Holy War," "The Day of the Lord," and "The Southern Cross." "Procession to Covenant" is a powerful and majestic work for brass band that was commissioned by The Salvation Army in 1987. The piece is based on the hymn tune "Darwall's 148th," and features a grandiose opening fanfare followed by a series of variations on the hymn tune. The piece builds to a thrilling climax before ending with a quiet and reflective coda. "The Holy War" is another significant work for brass band that was commissioned by The Salvation Army in 1998. The piece is based on John Bunyan's allegorical novel of the same name and tells the story of the battle between the forces of good and evil. The piece features a wide range of musical styles, from the ominous opening march to the triumphant finale. "The Day of the Lord" is a powerful and dramatic work for wind ensemble that was commissioned by the United States Air Force Band of Mid-America in 2005. The piece is based on the biblical prophecy of the same name and features a wide range of musical styles, from the haunting opening chorale to the energetic and rhythmic finale. "The Southern Cross" is a beautiful and lyrical work for brass band that was commissioned by The Salvation Army in 1984. The piece is based on the hymn tune "Londonderry Air," and features a series of variations on the tune. The piece is known for its lush harmonies and soaring melodies, and has become a favorite of brass bands around the world. In addition to his work as a composer and arranger, Himes is also a respected conductor and clinician. He has conducted numerous ensembles, including the United States Air Force Band of Mid-America, the United States Army Band "Pershing's Own," and the New York Staff Band of The Salvation Army. He has also served as a clinician and guest conductor at various music festivals and workshops throughout the United States and Canada.

More....