Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1923

Death

:

1976

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Band

 

 

Orchestral

 

Clifton Williams was an American composer of classical music, born on October 26, 1923, in Traskwood, Arkansas. He was the youngest of six children and grew up in a musical family. His father was a self-taught musician who played the guitar and harmonica, and his mother was a singer. Williams showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. Williams attended Little Rock Junior College and then transferred to the University of Arkansas, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1949. He then went on to study at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, where he earned a Master of Music degree in 1951. While at Eastman, Williams studied composition with Howard Hanson and Bernard Rogers. After completing his studies, Williams served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He was stationed in Germany and played in the Army band. During his time in the Army, Williams continued to compose music and wrote several works for the band. After his discharge from the Army, Williams returned to the United States and began a career as a composer and music educator. He taught at several universities, including Louisiana State University, the University of Texas at Austin, and the University of Miami. Williams also served as the composer-in-residence for the United States Air Force Band in Washington, D.C. Williams' music is characterized by its lyricism, rhythmic vitality, and colorful orchestration. He wrote in a variety of genres, including orchestral music, chamber music, and music for band. Some of his most famous works include "Fanfare and Allegro," "Symphonic Dance No. 3," and "Dramatic Essay." "Fanfare and Allegro" was written in 1954 and is one of Williams' most popular works. It was originally written for brass and percussion and later arranged for full orchestra. The piece begins with a bold fanfare played by the brass section, followed by a lively allegro section that features intricate rhythms and colorful orchestration. "Symphonic Dance No. 3" was written in 1965 and is another one of Williams' most famous works. It is a lively and energetic piece that features a variety of dance rhythms, including waltz, tango, and cha-cha. The piece is scored for full orchestra and is often performed by high school and college orchestras. "Dramatic Essay" was written in 1958 and is a piece for solo trumpet and band. The piece is characterized by its lyrical melodies and virtuosic trumpet writing. It has become a staple of the trumpet repertoire and is often performed in recitals and competitions. In addition to his compositions, Williams was also a respected music educator. He was known for his dedication to his students and his ability to inspire them to achieve their full potential. Many of his former students have gone on to successful careers in music. Williams died on February 12, 1976, at the age of 52. His legacy lives on through his music and the many students he inspired during his career. Today, his compositions continue to be performed by orchestras and bands around the world, and he is remembered as one of the most important American composers of the 20th century.

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