Eric Heukeshoven

A. Eric Heukeshoven is an American composer, multi-instrumentalist, and music educator known for his diverse styles ranging from jazz to classical choral music. Born in 1956, he spent over 35 years teaching music technology, composition, and jazz at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota. Today, he serves as the Director of Worship, Music, and Arts at Central Lutheran Church in Winona, Minnesota.

Here is a breakdown of his musical style, background, and notable compositions.

Musical Styles and Focus Areas

• Jazz and Performance: Heukeshoven started playing jazz at age 15 with a high school band called "The Dixie Ramblers," which became the youngest group to ever play at the famous Bix Beiderbecke Festival. He plays the jazz piano, trombone, euphonium, and accordion, and regularly performs regional gigs.

• Choral and Church Music: As a church music director, he writes heavily for choirs. His sacred and secular choral works are crafted to uplift congregations and young performers.

• Concert Band & Instrumental: He is highly regarded in the wind band world for composing sweeping, triumphant instrumental works.

Notable Compositions

His music is published by major names like Carl Fischer Music, Hal Leonard LLC, and Alliance Publications. Some of his best-known pieces include:

• Fanfare for Hope: A triumphant Grade 3 concert band piece commissioned for the inauguration of Saint Mary's University's 14th president. It is beautifully based on the famous Navy Hymn, "Eternal Father, Strong to Save".

• Just Believe: An enchanting, secular concert piece written for SATB (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass) choirs, designed to inspire young performers with themes of hope and unity.

• Song of Mission (God Is Still Speaking): A popular church choir anthem crafted to bring groups together during worship services.

• Joyful Noise: A lively sacred choral piece that also features guitar parts.

• Pathway of Life: A gentle, general worship piece arranged for full standard choirs.