Brian Benison on the Inspiration Behind His Creative Journey
- WOMCO
- Apr 1
- 3 min read
Brian Benison was a Master Prize winner in the Original Composition category at the 2025 Season 1 Bach International Music Competition UK
Biography
Brian Benison is an American composer and pianist whose work bridges contemporary classical music, film scoring, and sacred choral composition. With a career spanning film, television, and live performance, his music blends rich harmonic textures with modern sensibilities, resonating across a variety of genres and settings.
As a composer, Benison has written for both concert performance and media, creating scores that range from orchestral to experimental. His film credits include Paris, je t’aime (2006), Kung Pow: Enter the Fist (2002), and Boat Trip (2002), as well as the short film D’Angel Among Us (1996). His work with silent cinema, including original scores for Orphans of the Storm (1921) and The Affairs of Anatol (1921), showcases his ability to craft expressive, historically conscious compositions with a contemporary touch. He also contributed to the Slapstick Encyclopedia video series (1998), reviving early cinematic works through innovative scoring.
Beyond film, Benison has collaborated with internationally renowned artists, including Ray Charles, Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Quincy Jones, Lady Gaga, Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Lopez, and Tim McGraw. His expertise in orchestration, project coordination, and piano performance has made him a sought-after musician in both the entertainment industry and the classical music world.
In addition to his media work, Benison is deeply involved in contemporary sacred music. Since relocating to Fort Worth, Texas, in 2008, he has composed and directed music for numerous church ensembles, including 5Choir, a Contemporary Christian Music group based at Saint Andrew Catholic Church. His choral and instrumental works have been performed at various live events and retreats, bringing together elements of classical tradition with modern spiritual expression.
His contributions to church music extend across numerous congregations in the Fort Worth area, including Holy Family, Holy Name, Holy Redeemer, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Marty Leonard Community Chapel, Our Mother of Mercy, Robert Carr Chapel, Saint Bartholomew, Saint Catherine of Siena, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Saint Francis Village Catholic Chapel, Saint Maria Goretti, Saint Mary of the Assumption, Saint Rita, University Baptist Church, Holy Trinity Seminary, and Nolan High School.
A composer whose work reflects both innovation and tradition, Brian Benison continues to shape the landscape of contemporary classical music through his compositions for film, choral ensembles, and instrumental performance.
Could you share the inspiration behind your award-winning piece, Veni Sancte Spiritus - Piano Solo, and the message you hope to convey through it?
During my time at St. Andrew in Fort Worth, I often found myself lingering in the church after everyone had left, immersed in the stillness and dim light. There was something profoundly contemplative about that space—its quiet resonance, its sense of presence.
Then, a parishioner generously donated a beautiful piano in honor of their parents, and I had the privilege of selecting the instrument myself. It felt like a perfect match for the church, both in tone and spirit. Playing it in that sacred space, surrounded by silence and reflection, became the inspiration for Veni Sancte Spiritus..
How do you feel about the response to your composition, and are there any particular emotions or reactions you'd like listeners to experience when they hear it performed?
I have been deeply moved by the responses to this composition, with listeners describing it as relaxing, emotionally stirring, and deeply meaningful. My intention was to create a musical experience that encourages a heightened awareness of both the physical space around the listener and the passing of time—framed within the profound words of the Golden Sequence.
Would you like to share your experience participating in our competition and thank anyone (such as mentors, supporters, or other team members)?
Participating in this competition has been an incredibly rewarding experience, as it has helped to raise awareness of this music while also contributing to my growth and recognition as a composer. I am deeply grateful to those who have supported me throughout this journey, especially Dr. Christina Alves and everyone at St. Andrew, Brenda Witherspoon, Mike Hyry, Michael Sawey, Dr. Sue Benison, and Robin Cloward. Their encouragement and guidance have been invaluable, and I truly appreciate their support.