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Dean Goffin was a renowned classical music composer who was born on 5th June 1910 in New Zealand. He was the son of a Salvation Army officer, and his family moved frequently during his childhood. Goffin showed an early interest in music and began playing the cornet at the age of six. He later learned to play the piano and the organ. Goffin's musical talent was recognized early on, and he was appointed as the bandmaster of the Salvation Army's Wellington Citadel Band at the age of 18. He held this position for several years and gained a reputation as a skilled conductor and composer. In 1933, Goffin was appointed as the bandmaster of the Salvation Army's Melbourne Staff Band, where he remained for the next 12 years. During his time in Melbourne, Goffin composed many works for brass band, including his famous "Rhapsody in Brass." This piece was first performed by the Melbourne Staff Band in 1934 and quickly became one of Goffin's most popular compositions. He also composed several other works for brass band, including "The Light of the World," "The Triumph of Peace," and "The Golden Pen." In addition to his work with brass bands, Goffin also composed several works for orchestra, including his "Symphony in C Minor." This piece was first performed by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in 1945 and was well-received by audiences and critics alike. Goffin also composed several other works for orchestra, including "The New Zealand Suite" and "The Australian Suite." In 1945, Goffin returned to New Zealand and was appointed as the bandmaster of the Salvation Army's Wellington Citadel Band. He held this position for the next 20 years and continued to compose music for brass band and orchestra. During this time, he also served as the conductor of the Wellington Youth Orchestra and the Wellington Choral Society. One of Goffin's most famous works is his "Symphony of Thanksgiving," which was composed in 1954. This piece was commissioned by the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first Christian missionaries in New Zealand. The symphony was first performed by the National Orchestra of New Zealand and was later performed by orchestras around the world. Goffin's other notable works include his "Concertino for Cornet," which was composed in 1950 and is still a popular piece for cornet players today. He also composed several works for choir, including "The Holy City" and "The Crucifixion." Throughout his career, Goffin was recognized for his contributions to music. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1955 and was made a Fellow of the Royal School of Church Music in 1960. In 1970, he was awarded the Queen's Service Medal for his services to music. Dean Goffin passed away on 12th May 1984, leaving behind a legacy of beautiful music. His compositions continue to be performed by orchestras and bands around the world, and his influence on the world of classical music is still felt today.

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