Biography – detailed classical focus – D Geoffrey Bell – Composer of Choral and Instrumental Music

D. Geoffrey Bell made his national debut as a composer in 1981 at the age of 25. His “Missa Brevis” was the centerpiece of a nationwide broadcast on CBC-FM’s “Celebration” program.

Over his 38-year teaching career he wrote a number of works for children’s choirs, many of which have been published by reputable choral music publishers in Canada and the United States. Over time, he began to explore a greater variety of choral ensembles; larger, more serious concert works; and music for instrumental ensembles, including intimate orchestral works. His music has been performed on the radio and in concert in Canada, the United States and Australia, and of course, on YouTube.

In recent years, Geoffrey’s compositions have been premiered by the Unison Festival Chorus, Amabile Choirs, the Vancouver Chamber Choir and London Pro Musica. Four world premieres of new works were performed in the 2022-23 concert season: “Harp Improvisation #1: Introspection” had its YouTube debut by New Music harpist Danielle Kuntz; “The Cloths of Heaven” by Michelle Todd and Ensemble Resonance in Calgary; “The Commanded Heart” by the Festival Chorus for the Unison Choruses Canada “Open Harbour” Festival in Halifax; and “Come With Me to the Sea” by Amabile Choirs in London, Ontario.

Throughout his career, Geoffrey has been an advocate for Canadian composers and their music. Choral Canada’s Anacrusis magazine and the American Choral Directors Association Choral Journal have published two articles: “Dialogue With Three Distinguished Canadian Choral Composers”, and “Dialogue With Five Contemporary Canadian Composers”. Other published and online articles include “How to Commission a New Piece of Choral Music” and “What Happens to My Royalties When I Die?” The ACDA blog published his article, “From India Ink to Digital Bits”, which explores the effect of the electronic revolution on music today, and challenges contemporary choral conductors to experiment with the fusion of electronic and choral music!

Geoffrey is an Associate Composer of the Canadian Music Centre and an Emeritus Member of the Canadian League of Composers.

Recent reviews by prominent Canadian musicians:

“… A senior figure in the Canadian choral landscape.”
– Michael Zaugg, Artistic Director and Principal Conductor, Pro Coro Canada

“You are making such an impact on Canadian choral music. Congratulations!”
– Dr. Carol A. Beynon, Founding & Co-Artistic Director, Amabile Boys & Men’s Choirs