About William Hawley
William Hawley is a distinguished American composer, born in 1950, primarily celebrated for his exquisite vocal music, encompassing both unaccompanied and accompanied works for various chamber and orchestral combinations. His compositions, which often illuminate poetry through sound, have resonated with audiences across major cities in the Americas, Europe, and Asia, establishing him as a significant voice in contemporary classical music.
- Born in Bronxville, New York, in 1950, William Hawley initially focused on instrumental composition before discovering a profound connection and deeper expression within the realm of vocal music.
- His "Two Motets" were featured on the Grammy-nominated Hyperion Records CD, "Beyond All Mortal Dreams," recorded by The Choir of Trinity College, Cambridge.
- Hawley's choral works have been performed by renowned ensembles globally, including Seattle's Choral Arts and the Handel and Haydn Society's Young Women's Chorus.
- Notable works include his "Nocturne for Soprano Solo, Chorus, and Orchestra," "St. John Passion," and numerous madrigals and motets, demonstrating a rich and varied compositional output.
Performing William Hawley's sheet music offers a deeply rewarding experience for singers and choral ensembles of various skill levels, from advanced choirs to dedicated vocalists. His works are predominantly scored for SATB, SSA, and other choral voicings, often a cappella or with sensitive instrumental accompaniment, making them ideal for groups seeking expressive and challenging repertoire. Musicians will find his sheet music enriching, as it masterfully blends intricate harmonies with profound textual settings, allowing performers to explore and convey the elevating and enlightening power of poetry through music.