In this Musical Moment, VocalEssence artistic director and founder Philip Brunelle shares insider information and beautiful music by the composer Cary John Franklin.
Cary John Franklin
b. 1956
Cary John Franklin is a nationally recognized composer with commissions and performances from many of the leading performing ensembles in the United States. Educated in Minnesota at Macalester College in St. Paul and the University of Minnesota, Cary John Franklin has studied with Pulitzer-prize-winning composer Dominick Argento and with Dale Warland. His other mentors include Philip Brunelle and William McGlaughlin. His work ranges from chamber music to orchestral music, from choral music to opera. Mr. Franklin has received commissions from the Dale Warland Singers, VocalEssence, Kansas City Symphony, and the St. Louis Opera. He is also the recipient of numerous awards including a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship, McKnight Fellowship, Minnesota State Arts Board Fellowship and Meet The Composer-in-Residence with VocalEssence. VocalEssence commissioned two pieces by Franklin in the 1980s: With a Poet’s Eye, a five movement work for chorus and Hold Fast to Dreams. Cary John Franklin is Music Director of the Civic Orchestra of Minneapolis and his guest conducting invitations include the Minnesota Orchestra, St. Louis Symphony, and the Washington National Opera.
Suggested choral pieces:
- Hold Fast to Dreams (Walton WW 1019)
- A Carol (Boosey & Hawkes 48019917)
- With a Poet’s Eye (unpub.)
For more information about Franklin, visit his website: www.caryjohnfranklin.com