Sonatina - FL

Sonatina

for solo flute

by Clifford Shipp (1930-2019) - American composer

Clifford was born in Mineola, Texas. After graduating from high school in Orange, Texas, Clifford attended North Texas State University earning both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in 1952. Clifford served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War attaining the rank of CW2, leading the United States Air Force Band and establishing a life-long friendship with a now renowned composer by the name of John Williams. After returning to civilian life Clifford went on to earn a PhD at North Texas State University in 1960.

In 1962 Clifford moved to Fulton, Missouri where he accepted an appointment as Professor of Music at William Woods College where he remained for 21 years serving in various positions including Academic Dean and Executive Vice President.

Clifford then moved to St. Louis Conservatory and Schools for the Arts in 1983 to lead the institution as President. Clifford remained in St Louis for six years, at which time he accepted an appointment as Dean of the College of Arts and Architecture. In 1998 Clifford retired.