Role

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Composer

Period

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Contemporary

 

 

Modern

Genre

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Band

 

 

Chamber

 

 

Orchestral

 

John Zdechlik was an American composer of classical music, born on October 13, 1937, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He grew up in a musical family, with his father playing the accordion and his mother singing in a church choir. Zdechlik began playing the trumpet at a young age and later learned to play the piano and other instruments. Zdechlik attended the University of Minnesota, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1960 and a Master of Music degree in 1962. He studied composition with Paul Fetler and Dominick Argento, among others. During his time at the university, Zdechlik also played trumpet in the university band and orchestra. After completing his studies, Zdechlik began a career as a music educator. He taught at several high schools in the Minneapolis area, including Robbinsdale High School and Osseo High School. He also served as the director of bands at St. John's University in Collegeville, Minnesota, from 1970 to 1972. Throughout his career as an educator, Zdechlik continued to compose music. His works have been performed by orchestras and bands around the world, including the Minnesota Orchestra, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, and the United States Marine Band. Zdechlik's music is known for its lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and emotional depth. One of Zdechlik's most famous works is his "Chorale and Shaker Dance," which was composed in 1972. The piece is based on the Shaker hymn "Simple Gifts" and features a simple, yet powerful melody that is repeated throughout the work. The piece has become a staple of the wind band repertoire and has been performed by countless ensembles. Another notable work by Zdechlik is his "Celebration Overture," which was composed in 1984. The piece was commissioned by the Minnesota Orchestra to celebrate the orchestra's 80th anniversary. The work is a lively and energetic piece that showcases Zdechlik's skill as a composer. Zdechlik's other works include "American Riversongs," a suite for band that celebrates the beauty and diversity of America's rivers; "Prairie Dances," a suite for orchestra that captures the spirit of the American Midwest; and "Three American Hymns," a set of arrangements of traditional American hymns. In addition to his work as a composer and educator, Zdechlik was also a respected conductor. He served as the conductor of the Minneapolis Pops Orchestra from 1979 to 1983 and was a guest conductor for many other orchestras and bands. Zdechlik received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Distinguished Service Award from the Minnesota Music Educators Association and the John Philip Sousa Foundation's Sudler Order of Merit. He was also inducted into the Minnesota Music Educators Association Hall of Fame in 1991. John Zdechlik passed away on March 8, 2021, at the age of 83. His legacy as a composer, educator, and conductor lives on through his music and the countless musicians he inspired throughout his career.

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