Commissions

Saint John’s Abbey is proud to foster the art of musical composition and grateful to the donors who have made this possible. 

• World premiere of an organ piece by William Bolcolm, “Three Intermezzi for Organ,” commissioned by Saint John’s Abbey through the generous donation from Jeff (SJU ’87) and Jamie Barnett. First performed at the Solemn Blessing on September 18, 2021.

• Hymn text “Never Silent In Your Praised” by Sister Delores Dufner OSB, hymn tune SAINT JOHN’S ABBEY by Sally Ann Morris, both commissioned by Saint John’s Abbey. First sung at the Solemn Blessing on September 18, 2021.

• A Tone Poem in Honour of Saint Benedict (based on the chants Gaudeamus Omnesand Laeta Dies) by Rachel Laurin, was commissioned by Saint John’s Abbey through the generous donation from Michael Barone of American Public Media’s “Pipedreams.” The first performed was to have been given by the composer in Collegeville on October 25, 2020, but this was prevented by COVID.  The composer’s subsequent cancer prevented her appearance. In her stead, the U.S. premiere will be performed at the abbey by Isabelle Demers on November 5, 2023.