David Maslanka (1943-2017)

This afternoon I learned of the passing of iconic American composer David Maslanka. Having had the pleasure of performing, conducting, studying, and listening to many performances of his great compositions, I am at a loss for words. He was, and will be, one of the most creative, original, lasting, and authentic voices in music. Hearing his St. Francis performed by Dr. Peter Haberman and the Concordia Band was such a moving experience that highlighted just what visceral emotional depths Maslanka's music could explore. He will be missed, but his music will be talked about, performed, and studied, for lifetimes to come.