RONALD BECKETT

Ronald Beckett has had numerous compositions performed by ensembles throughout Ontario. He has written three operas that constitute a trilogy: Ruth, John, and I Am… that have been given fully staged performances by Arcady and other ensembles. Beckett’s catalogue of compositions includes two symphonies, several large-scale works for orchestra and chorus, an abundance of chamber music and pieces for piano and organ as well as over 200 songs. Details can be found on www.ronaldbeckettmusic.com. Beckett is founding director of Arcady (www.arcady.ca), an organization that was established in order to encourage young performers by providing for them a bridge between their student and professional performing careers. The ensemble offers programs ranging from small ensemble to full choral-orchestral performances in Ontario each year. Arcady has released three CD recordings on the Crescendo label: A Baroque Messiah (1999), Welcome Yule! (2001), and Ruth (2007). Welcome Yule! is a collection of original Christmas compositions and arrangements by Beckett. Beckett also arranged and conducted the CD entitled Peace on Earth (2000). In 2002, Phoenix Records released the CD A Beckett Miscellany – a sampling of Beckett’s instrumental music performed by The Essex Winds and Arcady.