Commissioned Composers

Andrew Steffen | Eric Barnum

Andrew Steffen currently attends the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire studying choral music education. Steffen graduated from New Richmond High School in New Richmond, Wisconsin in 2009. During his high school education, his love of composition became apparent. Steffen received two distinguished composition awards while attending New Richmond High School. They include: 2008 – First Place, High School Vocal Ensemble Category, Wisconsin State Music Association; 2009 – First Place and Overall winner of the High School Vocal Category, WSMA/DPI.  Steffen and his ensemble also performed the winning composition at the WSMA 2009 Fall Conference.

While attending UW-Eau Claire, Steffen has been the recipient of several scholarships including the Donald and Elsa Brinkman piano scholarship in 2010, Cabaret Scholarship in 2010, and the Noble Statesmen Award in 2011. Currently, Steffen is an active member of the Eau Claire chapter of American Choral Directors Association where he serves as the President for the organization.  He is involved with The Singing Statesmen and Concert Choir where he sings and accompanies both ensembles.  Steffen also regularly plays with The Master Singers for various programs throughout the year.  He is a member of The Statesmen affiliated a cappella group, The Innocent Men, where he writes numerous arrangements for the ensemble.

In 2011, Steffen had his first piece published by Colla Voce Music, Inc.  The score, entitled “La Mia Preghiera” (SATB) was premiered by the UW-Eau Claire Concert Choir at their 2011 spring concert.  Steffen is forever grateful to Dr. James Mulholland of Butler University for having faith in his works.  He is also honored to be selected by Dr. Schwartzhoff as one of the commissioned composers for The Master Singers at such a young age and is touched by the support, trust, and encouragement both he and his wife have provided.

A choral director and composer, Eric William Barnum continues to seek new ground musically.  Working with choirs of all types and styles, his collaborative leitmotif endeavors to provide intensely meaningful experiences for singers and audiences.

Barnum, CMA, is currently completing the DMA program at the University of Washington, under the direction of Dr. Geoffrey Boers.  He has an advanced degree in conducting from Minnesota State University, primary study with Dr. David Dickau, as well as, BA degrees in Composition and Vocal Performance from Bemidji State University.  He has appeared as a conductor across the United States, and has had the opportunity to work with some of the most innovative minds in the choral field.

His voice and vision is gaining popularity around the globe with performances from choirs internationally.  He continually composes for all choral ensembles, from professional to youth choirs, and has received numerous awards and prestigious grants such as a Bush Foundation Artist Fellowship and a McKnight Foundation Grant.  He has also held residencies with such ensembles as The Rose Ensemble and Kantorei (Denver), as well as with many high schools and collegiate choirs.

Eric currently lives in Seattle, Washington and thoroughly enjoys the unending beauty of the northwest.

Website: www.ewbmusic.com