Role

:

Composer Conductor

Birth

:

December 26, 1945 in Hardin, MS

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Band

 

David R. Holsinger is a renowned American composer of classical music, known for his unique style and innovative approach to composition. Born on December 26, 1945, in Hardin, Missouri, Holsinger grew up in a musical family. His father was a band director, and his mother was a pianist. Holsinger began playing the piano at a young age and later learned to play the trumpet and French horn. Holsinger attended Central Methodist University in Fayette, Missouri, where he earned a Bachelor of Music Education degree in 1968. He then went on to earn a Master of Music degree in composition from Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg, Missouri, in 1972. Holsinger continued his studies at the University of Kansas, where he earned a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in composition in 1976. Holsinger began his career as a music educator, teaching at various schools and universities throughout the United States. He served as the Director of Bands at Lee's Summit High School in Lee's Summit, Missouri, from 1968 to 1970. He then taught at Central Missouri State University from 1972 to 1976 and at Tennessee Technological University from 1976 to 1980. In 1980, Holsinger joined the faculty at Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee, where he served as the Chair of the Music Department and Director of Bands until his retirement in 2013. Throughout his career, Holsinger has composed over 200 works for various ensembles, including wind band, orchestra, choir, and chamber groups. His compositions are known for their intricate harmonies, rhythmic complexity, and emotional depth. Holsinger's music has been performed by numerous ensembles, including the United States Marine Band, the United States Army Band, and the Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra. One of Holsinger's most famous works is "On a Hymnsong of Philip Bliss," which was composed in 1989. The piece is a tribute to the hymn "It Is Well with My Soul" by Philip Bliss and features a beautiful melody that is passed between the different sections of the band. "On a Hymnsong of Philip Bliss" has become a staple in the wind band repertoire and is often performed at concerts and festivals around the world. Another notable work by Holsinger is "Havendance," which was composed in 1987. The piece is a lively dance that features a catchy melody and intricate rhythms. "Havendance" has become one of Holsinger's most popular works and is often performed by high school and college bands. Holsinger's other notable works include "Liturgical Dances," "To Tame the Perilous Skies," and "Scootin' on Hardrock." "Liturgical Dances" is a suite of four dances that are based on traditional liturgical music. "To Tame the Perilous Skies" is a tribute to the men and women of the United States Air Force and features a powerful and emotional melody. "Scootin' on Hardrock" is a fun and energetic piece that features a driving rhythm and catchy melody. In addition to his work as a composer, Holsinger has also been a strong advocate for music education. He has served as a clinician and guest conductor for numerous high school and college bands and has written several articles on music education. Holsinger has also been a member of several professional organizations, including the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) and the National Band Association. Holsinger has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career.

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