Current Projects
ROCOmotive
“ROCOmotive” – a commission for the Houston-based River Oaks Chamber Orchestra (ROCO), this work will be based on miniature trains. The concert will include the world premiere on February 23, 2019, and will be conducted by Brett Mitchell. Tickets
Multi-media Tone Poem
Multi-media tone poem for the Quad City Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Mark Russell Smith. World premiere on April 6-7, 2019. The work will involve local photography, art, poetry and original music to tell the rich history of the Quad Cities. Tickets
Symphony #3
Stephenson’s first symphony for orchestra (his first two are for wind ensemble) will receive its world premiere on April 26, 2019, as commissioned/premiered by the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami. Details forthcoming.
Bass Trombone Concerto
Chicago Symphony/Muti world premiere of bass trombone concerto for Charlie Vernon. Three concerts – June 13-15, 2019. Stephenson will receive his first classical world premiere from the orchestra he grew up listening to! Tickets
News
Chicago Symphony Announces New Commission by Jim Stephenson
Very excited to officially announce that I will be writing a new bass trombone concerto for Charlie Vernon, to be premiered by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of…
Recent Releases
Upcoming Conducting Engagements
As a conductor, Jim offers a wide variety of options, that can lead to more efficient rehearsal and intimate collaboration. Whether premiering a new orchestral work, or directing several works in a festival/college-residency setting, or simply leading a non-Stephenson program, he offers a composer’s insight that otherwise might go untapped, creating a rewarding experience for both performers and audience-members.
Additionally, with his experience and large catalog as an arranger, you can have Jim conduct your themed Pops concert, and bring all of his own arrangements/original works, making for a complete package deal!
Upcoming Residencies
Increasingly in demand as a college guest lecturer, Jim has appeared at many colleges and universities across the United States, where he presents talks, master-classes, coachings, and lessons in group or individual settings.
In recent years, these appearances include Ball State University, Indiana University, Indiana Wesleyan University, Kennesaw State University, North Dakota State University, SUNY-Fredonia, University of Massachusetts/Amherst, University of Michigan, University of North Texas, University of Wisconsin-Platteville, and Wyoming University.
Residencies are tailored to each institution’s needs but they commonly entail the following:
- Conducting the organization’s ensemble(s)
- Masterclasses/lectures with students
- Public/private events with donors and/or board members
- Pre/Post concert talks, engagement
- Private composition lessons (may require additional fees)
Jim will be at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago. If you'd like to meet up, please send an email to ComposerJim@gmail.com
Jim Stephenson to conduct the SEIBA High School Honor Band in music of Rheinberger/Hanson, Grainger and Stephenson. The concert will also feature a world premiere of Stephenson's (working title: Chorale and Blue).
As a guest of Tim Hendrix, Jim will spend a day working with Bentonville High School band as they prepare his 2nd Symphony - VOICES - for performance at "Music for All" in Indianapolis in March.
Jim Stephenson to be guest Composer-in-Residence for the 2019 FOCAM (Festival of Contemporary Art Music) at Washington State University. Music to be performed includes his Devil's Tale, Symphony for wind ensemble, and several chamber/solo works. Jim will be on hand to work with the ensembles and with students.