Composer and pianist William McClelland was born in Detroit and grew up near Goodison, Michigan. Acclaimed for his "vivid music," "appealingly direct manner of expression" and "fertile contrapuntal imagination," (Gramophone Magazine), McClelland has written a wide variety of music in many styles and forms. His recording of choral works on Albany Records, "The Revenge of Hamish," performed by William Appling Singers & Orchestra under the direction of William Appling, has received international acclaim. McClelland has produced two recordings of early American choral music, including "Wake Ev'ry Breath," choral music of America's first native-born composer, William Billings, on New World Records, and "Shall We Gather," American hymns and spirituals from the 19th century, on Albany Records. He has also produced recordings by pianist William Appling of music by Scott Joplin and J.S. Bach. He presents concerts of classic American theater music with his wife, singer Jean McClelland, and for many years lead a popular 7-piece New York City swing band, The Feetwarmers.