Role

:

Composer  

Birth

:

1938

Death

:

1984

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Keyboard

 

Calvin Hampton was an American composer, organist, and pianist who was born on May 30, 1938, in Kittanning, Pennsylvania. He was the youngest of three children born to his parents, who were both musicians. His father was a church organist, and his mother was a pianist and music teacher. From a young age, Hampton showed a natural talent for music, and he began playing the piano at the age of four. Hampton's family moved to Pittsburgh when he was six years old, and he continued to study music with his mother. He also began taking organ lessons with a local church organist, and by the age of 12, he was playing the organ for church services. In high school, Hampton was a member of the school band and orchestra, and he also played the piano for local theater productions. After graduating from high school, Hampton attended Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, where he studied music theory and composition. He also continued to play the organ and piano, and he became the organist at a local church. In 1960, Hampton moved to New York City to attend the Juilliard School, where he studied with Vincent Persichetti and William Bergsma. During his time at Juilliard, Hampton began to establish himself as a composer and performer. He won several awards for his compositions, including the BMI Student Composer Award and the Juilliard Orchestra Composition Competition. He also performed as a pianist and organist at various venues in New York City, including Carnegie Hall and the Cathedral of St. John the Divine. After graduating from Juilliard in 1964, Hampton became the organist and choirmaster at Calvary Episcopal Church in New York City. He held this position for the rest of his life, and he became known for his innovative and eclectic approach to church music. He incorporated elements of jazz, rock, and folk music into his compositions, and he often used unconventional instruments such as synthesizers and electric guitars. Hampton's compositions are characterized by their lyrical melodies, complex harmonies, and rhythmic vitality. He wrote music for a variety of ensembles, including orchestra, chamber groups, and solo instruments. Some of his most notable works include "Five Dances for Organ," "Sonata for Trumpet and Piano," and "Variations on a Hymn Tune." In addition to his work as a composer and performer, Hampton was also a respected music educator. He taught at several institutions, including the Mannes College of Music, the Juilliard School, and the Union Theological Seminary. He was known for his passionate and engaging teaching style, and he inspired many of his students to pursue careers in music. Tragically, Hampton's life was cut short when he died of AIDS-related complications on August 7, 1984, at the age of 46. His death was a great loss to the music world, but his legacy lives on through his compositions, recordings, and the many musicians he inspired. In conclusion, Calvin Hampton was a gifted composer, performer, and educator who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His innovative and eclectic approach to music has influenced generations of musicians, and his compositions continue to be performed and admired today. Despite his untimely death, Hampton's legacy lives on as a testament to his talent, creativity, and passion for music.

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