Ryan T. Janzen
Text-focused choral composer from Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Ryan T. Janzen
Text-focused choral composer from Winnipeg, Manitoba.
My name is Ryan T. Janzen, and I'm a choral composer based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I began writing music at the age of 13, and have pursued composition ever since, with some minor twists and turns along the way. I graduated from The University of Manitoba with a Bachelors of Music in Composition in 2023.
During my degree at the U of M, I discovered a passion for writing choral music. I've always been drawn to text-driven pieces, and all of my writing aims to bring that text to life. My experience in choirs helps me focus on creating idiomatic lines and satisfying harmonies, in addition to a compelling piece of music.
In addition to composition, I'm an avid singer and self-taught organist. I'll never turn down an opportunity to learn a new instrument. I have a wide appreciation for various kinds of music, from classical to metal, pop to rock, and film scores to video game soundtracks.
Commissioned by the University of Manitoba Concert Choir, with Dr. Catherine Robbins as director, From Nature is a bittersweet response to humanity's disregard for the wellbeing of our home. The piano plays the part of the background noise of nature - the hum of the wind, the shimmering of water. The choir takes on the role of the soft voice of nature, and the text, being both a love poem and a lament, exposes the consequences of our greed.
Living was the piece that sparked my love for choral composition. The text, originally written by my sister, is a strong, visual journey through the various aspects of life that seep out of our earth. I consider myself incredibly fortunate that I was able to take this piece to Spain with the University of Manitoba Singers on their tour, under the direction of Dr. Elroy Friesen.
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