Short Bio
Accused having a “prolific musical profile” Robert W. Rust (b. 1998) is a young and accomplished American composer known for his innovative compositions. Influenced by the Tintinnabuli style developed by Arvo Pärt, Robert’s music has been called “very poignant and moving” and “meditative and evocative of the past.” His music has been premiered by notable musicians such as Dan Lippel (guitar), Eunah Noh (haegum), Wonkak Kim (clarinet), and Estalì Gomez (soprano). He is currently pursuing his MM in music composition at the University of Oregon.
Long Bio
Accussed having a “prolific musical profile” Robert W. Rust (b. 1998) is a young and accomplished American composer known for his poignant, meditative, and spiritual music. Among his recent compositions are Things Seen and Not Seen for the Oregon Bach Festival Composer Symposium, Gemellus for the Oregon Music Education Association, and Sanctus for the Music Today festival. His music has been premiered by notable musicians such as Dan Lippel (guitar), Eunah Noh (haegum), Wonkak Kim (clarinet), and Estalì Gomez (soprano). He is currently pursuing his MM in music composition at the University of Oregon.
Influenced by Arvo Pärt's Tintinnabuli style, Rust's music showcases striking originality while staying true to the tradition established by the Estonian master. Rust frequently incorporates sacred texts in both his vocal and instrumental works, treating the music as if it were a translation of the words. He considers it his responsibility as a composer to serve the well-being of his audiences and performers by promoting truth, goodness, and beauty in his work.
A devout Christian, Rust frequently writes and arranges incidental music for Church services. His recent collaborations with University Fellowship Church in Eugene, Oregon, have proven incredibly successful and meaningful to churchgoers who value the music, tailor made for their congregation.
Rust holds degrees in music composition and piano pedagogy from the Master’s University, where he studied with Ben Mason and Gary Kuo. He is currently pursuing an MM in music composition at the University of Oregon.