Bruce M. Saperston

Thank you so much for your interest in my music and my life’s journey!

When I was in High School, I dreamed of becoming a composer. As an undergraduate music major at the University of North Texas, I composed music for a number of university theatrical productions and one professional play production in Dallas, Texas. However, shortly after graduation, I began to follow a new career path.

As an aspiring songwriter/composer, I moved to Austin to join a pop music band. At the same time, I took a job at an institution for individuals with intellectual, emotional, and physical disabilities. While working there, I observed the seemingly miraculous effects of music on some of the residents. I read about the relatively new profession of music therapy and became fascinated by the ways in which music could be scientifically applied in the treatment of individuals with various disabilities. I fell in love with the field of Music Therapy!

During the next 16 years I became a Board-Certified Music Therapist, completed a Master’s Degree and a Ph.D. in Special Education at the University of Texas at Austin, and pioneered interventions for a variety of populations. After 17 years of clinical work, I became a professor at Utah State University, where I taught music therapy and psychology of music courses for 25 years and also served as the Head of the Department of Music for 14 years. However, although I loved my work in music therapy, I always yearned to fulfill my dream of being a composer.

Now during my retirement, I have finally been blessed with time to compose and I’ve been able to combine my two greatest passions: my love of composing and my spiritual development. The act of composing music based on our beautiful Jewish liturgy is itself prayer to me. I find it a transcendent experience to create melodies and harmonies to accompany the holy psalms of our ancient ancestors, some of whom lived over 3,000 years ago. I am sure that other composers of our liturgical songs feel that same experience. It feels as if you are transcending time, by collaborating with our ancient holy ancestors in delivering the inspired words of G-d in new ways and thus enabling others to feel closer to G-d.

I am very grateful for your interest in my music! 

Blessings, 

Bruce