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Composer Dan Musselman uses his musical talents to express the multiplying power of generosity. "Do the Same" is a response to the theme of "meals" and Luke 3:11.

Luke 3:11

Do the Same

By 

Dan Musselman

Credits: 

Curated by: 

Benjamin JM Klein and Jonathon Roberts

2014

Image by Giorgio Trovato

Primary Scripture

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Being generous does not deplete one’s own resources, but rather multiplies for the good of all. Whether regarding clothing, food, money, or energy, the gifts that we offer are exponentially increased by God to enrich and impact the lives of those around us. If we play just the small part that we are each allotted, our combined efforts transcend the single contribution that we individually make and coalesce into something profound and meaningful, capable of sustaining everyone in a self-supporting system based on compassion and giving.

“Do the Same” was composed with this mindset. No single part dominates the piece or demonstrates virtuosity. There are only small offerings from each voice that combine to make something larger and more beautiful than the sum of its parts. The individual parts may be even somewhat disjoint from one another—through different time signatures, harmonies and rhythmic cycles—but the collective result is that each part becomes affirmed in its role as the conglomerate grows to forge new meaning and conviction, just as we are called to work together within the body of Christ.

Spark Notes

The Artist's Reflection

Dan Musselman started studying Suzuki piano at the age of 5 but had a very eclectic musical background. Beginning in middle school, he played trumpet in the concert and jazz band, and played guitar in rock bands. Dan would go on to receive the full ride, Diana Ross scholarship to attend McNally Smith College of Music in St. Paul, Minnesota. There he completed his bachelor’s degree in piano performance in 2008, graduating summa cum laude, salutatorian, and was the sole recipient of the “Outstanding Student Award.” Dan’s solo CD, Ruminations (2008), which contains all original improvised material, has over 200,000 plays on internet radio. Beginning in 2009, Dan has been teaching full-time at McNally Smith College of Music, teaching piano courses and lessons, music theory, and ear training. He has lead his own ensembles at the major music establishments in the Twin Cities, including the Artists’ Quarter and the Dakota Jazz Club, in addition to performances with the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra, John Moulder, Brian Hemstock, and many others. In 2013, Dan released his album Devotion–a jazz album is based off of books of the Bible–which has received airplay on over 200 radio stations internationally. He also is a musician and arranger for Wooddale Church in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Dan is is currently finishing his doctorate in composition at the University of Minnesota, and is expected to complete his degree by January of 2015.




Dan Musselman

About the Artist

Dan Musselman

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