Role

:

Composer  

Birth

:

1956

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Keyboard

 

Bruce Neswick is a renowned American composer, organist, and choir director. He was born on October 5, 1956, in New York City, and grew up in a musical family. His father was a church organist, and his mother was a singer. Neswick started playing the piano at the age of four and began taking organ lessons at the age of ten. Neswick attended the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in organ performance. He then went on to earn a Master of Music degree in organ performance from Indiana University. While at Indiana University, Neswick studied with renowned organist and composer, Jean Langlais. After completing his studies, Neswick served as the organist and choir director at several churches in the United States, including St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Indianapolis, Indiana, and Trinity Episcopal Church in Portland, Oregon. In 1990, he was appointed as the Director of Music at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, where he served for 18 years. As a composer, Neswick has written numerous works for choir, organ, and orchestra. His compositions are known for their rich harmonies, lyrical melodies, and intricate counterpoint. Some of his most notable works include "The Peace of Christ," "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel," and "Fanfare and Processional on 'O Come, All Ye Faithful.'" Neswick's music has been performed by some of the world's leading choirs and orchestras, including the Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, the Choir of Westminster Abbey, and the New York Philharmonic. His compositions have also been featured on several recordings, including "The Peace of Christ: Music for Advent and Christmas" and "The Choral Music of Bruce Neswick." In addition to his work as a composer, Neswick is also a highly respected organist and choir director. He has performed in some of the world's most prestigious venues, including Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, St. Paul's Cathedral in London, and the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. He has also served as a guest conductor for several choirs, including the Choir of Trinity College, Cambridge, and the Choir of St. Paul's Cathedral in London. Neswick has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 2000, he was awarded the prestigious Prix de Rome in Music Composition by the American Academy in Rome. He has also been awarded the John Cook Award for outstanding contributions to church music by the Diocese of New York and the Distinguished Alumni Award from Indiana University. Today, Neswick continues to compose, perform, and teach. He is currently the Director of Music at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Portland, Oregon, where he oversees a vibrant music program that includes a choir of professional singers and a renowned organ. He also serves as a faculty member at the University of Portland, where he teaches courses in music theory and composition. In conclusion, Bruce Neswick is a highly respected composer, organist, and choir director who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His compositions are known for their beauty, complexity, and emotional depth, and his performances are renowned for their technical skill and musicality. Neswick's legacy will continue to inspire and influence generations of musicians and music lovers for years to come.

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