Steadfast

Steadfast, op. 275
Commissioned by the Mahomet Band Community, Mahomet, IL
Michael Stevens, Director
2026 – grade 3 - 4:30

COMING SOON

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The band program at Mahomet‑Seymour High School in central Illinois has long been recognized for its excellence, thanks in no small part to its exceptional director, Michael Stevens. When Michael’s wife, Nancy, invited me to write this piece in honor of his retirement, she described him as steady, loyal, hard‑working, and someone whose influence has left a truly positive and lasting mark on generations of students. With that in mind, one word seemed to embody all of those traits: steadfast. It became the natural title for this work.  

Steadfast opens with a fanfare that reflects strength, stability, and an encouraging presence. The musical material introduced in this opening statement becomes the foundation for all that follows—shaping the forward‑moving main theme, the expressive lyrical section, and ultimately the triumphant conclusion.  Perhaps the best way to convey Michael’s enduring impact is through the words of his wife, Nancy:  

This beautiful composition stands as a testament to the profound impact one man has had on a single community over the course of 35 years.  Through his unwavering commitment to music education, Michael Stevens has enriched countless lives, forging deep connections with his students and leaving an indelible mark on all who have had the privilege of learning under his guidance.   Michael occupies a unique role as a band director. Unlike most, he serves as his own district feeder program, introducing students to the world of band and guiding them from their very first experiences in fifth grade all the way through their senior year. This continuity creates a rare opportunity for lasting relationships to blossom between Michael and his students.  Over the years, the bond between Michael and his students evolves beyond the typical student-teacher relationship. They become more like family. This dynamic is strengthened through early morning and after-school sectionals, evening performances at football games and concerts, weeks spent together at band camp each summer, and travels across the country for band competitions and trips. Through these shared experiences, the sense of family is solidified—they become musicians experiencing life together.   Throughout his career, Michael has received countless notes and letters from both past and present students. These heartfelt messages express deep gratitude for the supportive and inspiring environment he cultivated. The emotions in these letters are palpable, with tears of appreciation evident on the pages. Michael, in turn, is often moved by the profound influence his students attribute to him, frequently taken aback by the depth of their sentiments.   Michael’s natural ability to provide consistency and daily acceptance has served as a lifeline for many students. He consistently emphasized that awards, trophies, and accolades were secondary to the journey and shared experiences of making music together. His absolute dedication to his band program and students has proven to be deeply rewarding, creating a musical family that has touched the lives of all involved.