WWU student composer Nehemiah Jones to collaborate with Seattle Opera
WWU composition student Nehemiah Jones is the third in a succession of WWU student composers who have been selected to collaborate in the Seattle Opera's Jane Lang Davis Creation Lab, formed in 2020 to present new opera productions by local composers and librettists.
Previous WWU student composers include Paul Stovall (BM '20), and Mieke Doezema (BM '20). All three are students of Western's Associate Professor of Composition, Charles Halka.
Compelling, resonant stories
Composers, songwriters, librettists, and lyricists of all genres are encouraged to apply to the Jane Lang Davis Creation Lab to create new operas that tell compelling, resonant stories through vocal music. Selected creators develop 20-minute operas throughout the season that are presented in a concert format for a public audience in Tagney Jones Hall at the Opera Center. Each opera undergoes a development process that includes a table reading, music workshop, and rehearsal prior to the public performance. The creators receive support from professional composers and librettists as they develop their work.
An engaging vocalist and composer from Bellingham, WA
Nehemiah Jones is an engaging vocalist and composer from Bellingham, WA. His passion for music emerged during high school through choir and orchestra, leading him to pursue dual bachelor's degrees in Music Composition and Vocal Performance at Western Washington University (WWU). Currently, he studies under Richard Hodges and Charles Halka and is active within both his school and community.
Nehemiah’s works are noted for their novel use of harmony and tone color. A collection of his compositions earned him first place in WWU’s Composition Competition. Nehemiah is continuously composing for his peers at WWU and looks forward to the premiere of his String Quartet No. I, as well as the ongoing collaboration with his fellow musicians. He continues to bridge his passions for performance and composition, enriching his musical journey and connecting with audiences through his artistry.
