The life and compositions of Robert Sheldon
Before the magic
Robert Sheldon is greatly influenced by the works of Eric Whitacre. They share common ground such as intense building climaxes, restated themes, sudden mood changes the power to transport people within their music.
In the mind of the composer
"I am continually energized by the beauty of sound, and trying to figure out ways to create new and different sounds using colors and textures while still being true to my “melodic” predisposition."
Awards and Accomplishments
Some very knowledgeable advise from Sheldon is this:
"Don’t write until you have something to say. Then, be organized. Plan your writing project as you would a travel experience. When I plan a trip, I want to know where I am going, how long I will be gone, who is going with me, what I want to do, see or accomplish on the trip, and when I will return. Same thing when I write. I would like to think that the music is a travel adventure of a sort, and that anyone who hears the music will in some way be transported or changed by it."
- concert band editor for Alfred Music Company
- lead author for "Sound Innovations for Band" method book
- co-author for the "Measures of Success Vol. 1" method book and "Sound Innovations for Strings" method book
- received Volkwein Award for composition
- received Stanbury Award for teaching
- 28 time recipient of American Society of Composers
- Authors and Publishers Standard Award for compositions
Teaching Experience
How he got started
- 28 years for Florida and Illinois public schools
- Illinois Central College and Bradly University
- faculty of Florida State University teaching conducting as well as instrumental music education
- director of FSU's Bands
- conductor at Alachua County Youth Orchestra in Gainsville, Florida
- conductor of Prairie Wind Ensemble in East Peoria, Illinois
- conducts numerous All State and Honor Bands
- his first composition was for his high school jazz band in the 10th grade
- his main inspirations are Chifton Williams, Al Reed, and Richard Bowles
- received is bachelor of music education from University of Miami and his master of fine arts in instrumental conducting from the University of Florida