Composition Contests

1987 National Composition Contest

My original purpose was to write a theme and variations piece; however, once the first variation was written I realized that the variation was a lot more interesting and versatile than the original theme.  I dumped my original idea and based the work solely on the variation.

1989 Area XI Composition Contest (original composition division)

This a fun piece which utilizes many different handbell techniques.  Both ringers and audiences enjoy it.

1994 Area II Composition Contest (original composition division)

Finally, after the second resurrection of this work, the composition made it to print!  Written for handbells and trumpet (or organ or brass ensemble).  Note: this work was used as one of the Massed ringing selections for the 1996 Eastern National Festival Conferences.

2003 Bells of the Sound Composition Contest

This work was submitted for the Roadtrip contest sponsored by Bells of the Sound.  The contest was looking for works that evoke the character and spirit of regions of America.  This is what Bells of the Sound published on their web site about my work:

Second Place was given to accomplished handbell composer, Paul McKlveen of Overland Park, KS for "The Journey Home".  Inspired by a trip to Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, "The Journey Home" perfectly captures the spirit of coming home.  Paul wanted the piece to have a melody reminiscent of an American folk tune, and studied "Shenandoah" for inspiration.  "I imagined what it would be like to come back home to the valley", he writes. "As I cross over a ridge and into the valley, the cares and urgencies of the day relinquish their grip on me, and the peace of the valley beckons me to slow my pace.  I amble onward.  I'm going home."