Composer

:

John Stevens

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Average_duration

:

3:59

Benediction is a contemporary classical composition by John Stevens, an American composer and professor of music at the University of Colorado Boulder. The piece was composed in 1990 and premiered on April 14, 1991, by the University of Colorado Wind Symphony, conducted by Allan McMurray. Benediction is a single-movement work that lasts approximately 12 minutes. The piece is scored for a large wind ensemble, including piccolo, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, and percussion. The composition is characterized by its use of rich harmonies, lyrical melodies, and intricate rhythms. The piece begins with a slow and solemn introduction, featuring a haunting melody played by the woodwinds. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the brass and percussion joining in to create a powerful and majestic sound. The middle section of the piece features a lively and rhythmic theme, with the various sections of the ensemble trading off melodies and rhythms. The music then returns to the opening theme, with the woodwinds once again playing the haunting melody. The piece ends with a quiet and peaceful coda, featuring a solo trumpet playing a simple and beautiful melody. Benediction is a deeply spiritual and emotional work, inspired by Stevens' own experiences with religion and spirituality. The piece is meant to evoke feelings of reverence, awe, and gratitude, and to provide a sense of comfort and solace to listeners. The composition has been widely performed and recorded by wind ensembles around the world, and is considered to be one of Stevens' most popular and enduring works.

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