Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1954 in Westport, CT

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Choral

 

Steven Sametz is a renowned American composer, conductor, and educator, known for his contributions to the world of classical music. Born on February 16, 1954, in New York City, Sametz grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a professional violinist, and his mother was a pianist. Sametz started playing the piano at the age of five and began composing music when he was just eight years old. Sametz received his early education at the Walden School, a summer music program in New Hampshire. He later attended the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, where he earned his Bachelor of Music degree in composition. He then went on to pursue his Master of Music degree in composition at Yale University, where he studied with the renowned composer, Krzysztof Penderecki. Sametz's early works were heavily influenced by the minimalist movement of the 1970s. However, he soon developed his own unique style, which blended elements of minimalism, romanticism, and contemporary classical music. His compositions are known for their intricate harmonies, rich textures, and expressive melodies. One of Sametz's most notable works is his choral composition, "I Have Had Singing." Written in 1991, the piece is based on a poem by Ronald Blythe and has become a staple of the choral repertoire. The piece has been performed by numerous choirs around the world and has been praised for its beauty and emotional depth. Another of Sametz's notable works is his choral cycle, "A Child's Requiem." Written in memory of the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, the piece is a powerful tribute to the innocence and beauty of childhood. The cycle consists of six movements, each of which is based on a different text, including poems by Walt Whitman and Emily Dickinson. In addition to his work as a composer, Sametz is also an accomplished conductor and educator. He has served as the director of choral activities at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, since 1987 and has conducted numerous choirs, including the Princeton Singers and the Westminster Choir. Sametz has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 2019, he was awarded the prestigious Michael Korn Founders Award for his work as a composer and conductor. He has also been recognized by the American Academy of Arts and Letters, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the American Choral Directors Association. In conclusion, Steven Sametz is a highly respected composer, conductor, and educator who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His compositions are known for their beauty, emotional depth, and unique style, and his work has been performed by numerous choirs around the world. Sametz's legacy as a composer and educator will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of musicians and music lovers.

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