“Pax was a gentle guide and inspiring force when collaborating with us on the development of new songs for
The Octopus and the Interview. The cast was made up of dancers whose relationship to singing/vocal work ran the spectrum from expansive experience/comfort to deep fear/discomfort. Pax was able to introduce exercises and assignments that brought out the very best in every performer, inviting them to contribute meaningfully to the creation of the original songs. Pax took the results of these experiments and whipped them into beautiful compositions that fit beautifully into the skill-sets of the cast performing the work. They also worked with us to break down the performance of these songs, teaching the group to sing with ease and pride. What a joy to work with Pax in this way.” –
Nichole Canuso, Nichole Canuso Dance Company
“We approached Pax with a somewhat tricky project—compose a work for choir, clarinet, saxophone, viola, and piano. Not only did they finish the piece ahead of schedule, the writing, timbre, and choice of text were all outstanding. In addition, Pax offered very helpful insight and guidance during rehearsal. Bravo!” – Ryan Kauffman, Beyond Ourselves Project
“Over the years, I have requested a number of arrangements from Pax Ressler and they always end up being the favorite of my choir. It is a delight to work with Pax. When they were commissioned to write a selection which involved my choir this year, they took into consideration the particular group of singers I had and made arrangements specific to the ability of my choir. I had the ability to give feedback or make suggestions. Pax even came in to hear my choir and give feedback. I highly recommend for anyone to work with Pax!” – Marcella Hostetler, Music Teacher at Lancaster Mennonite School
“It was because of Pax’s collaborative demeanor and ego-less attitude (not to mention the wonderful writing for choirs) that I was so willing to ask Pax to compose. Usually within a few days of proposing something, Pax would already send me a draft. They were also always willing to make changes to suit my whims, and they would give kind and helpful suggestions during the rehearsal process.” – Dr. Scott Hochstetler, Associate Professor of Music at Goshen College
“The Plains Mennonite Church was honored and blessed to have Pax Ressler compose an original hymn for our 250th Anniversary Celebration. They did an excellent job of blending new and ancient harmonies into an anthem that resonates with life, energy, and praise to God. The choir was grateful and moved to tears as Pax introduced the piece on a Sunday morning after worship and now the entire congregation has enjoyed singing the hymn as part of our regular worship services. Their gifts, sensitivity to congregational diversity, and rootedness in the Anabaptist tradition was the perfect match for our situation, not to mention their timely and helpful work along the way; we will be forever blessed and grateful!” – Mike Derstine, Pastor, Plains Mennonite Church, Hatfield, Pennsylvania
“Pax is a born leader. For two years, I was their composition instructor at Goshen College/Indiana University South Bend. It has been a pleasure and a delight to work with them. They are prompt, organized. They have set clear career and compositional goals. Pax is extremely expressive and inventive in their composition. In addition, they have a natural gift for vocal and stage music.” – Dr. Jorge Muñiz, Associate Professor of Music at Indiana University South Bend
“One of my favorite things about singing Pax’s music is the way their compositions fuse compelling text with innovative music, allowing both elements to inform and enhance each other. Their music is challenging and fresh, tackling complex themes with grace and great beauty.” – Melinda Steffy, member of the Chestnut Street Singers
Pax Ressler 