J. A. Devor: Onward Great Maintainer, Percussion and Amplified Double Bass

About the Composition

Inspired by the cyclical notion of rhythm, especially in aural musical traditions, Onward Great Maintainer combines an assortment of metals, rattles, and basslines with pounding additive rhythms unevenly separated. Opening with reoccurring crystalline harmonics, the heaviness of the forward onslaught breaks the listener away from any sense of fragile sound. 

The maintainer's job is to keep in existence, to preserve what has been. At what point does maintaining prove futile, but then again, what other options do we as individuals have?

Commissioned by and written for Lucas Conant.

About the Composer

James A. Devor (b. 1998) is an American composer and double bassist who genuinely believes classical music needs to be made available for everyone. His music draws on a wide-ranging stylistic background inspired by growing up in central Pennsylvania. Always blending ‘high’ and ‘low’ music, James pushes to view all genres as equally valid and is tired of the prevailing elitism in the contemporary classical music scene. His work responds to the struggles facing neurodivergent individuals and conflicts between social classes.

His works have been recognized by NACUSA, the Festival of New American Music, the American Prize, ASCAP, and the Red Jasper Award. James completed graduate work at The Hartt School – University of Hartford and received his Artist Diploma from OAcademy as a 2024 cohort member of the Gabriela Ortiz Composing Studio.

Find more at: www.jdevormusic.com