Stephen Harrison Paulus is one of today's leading American composers. A versatile and prolific composer of many genres, Paulus finds himself equally at home with works ranging from orchestral music to art songs. His current catalogue contains over two hundred works. Stephen Paulus' ability to create imaginative and beautiful vocal lines has contributed to his reputation as a leading composer of opera as well. His operatic works are in great demand. Paulus has written eight operas, most of which were commissioned by the Opera Theater of St. Louis. Paulus' latest opera, Heloise and Abelard, was premiered in April, 2002 at the Juilliard Opera Center, which commissioned the work.

The Three Hermits is a one-act opera based on a short folk story by Leo Tolstoy and tells the story of a bishop who receives a lesson in humility when faced with three truly holy men on a remote island. Recent performances of The Three Hermits in Salt Lake City and the wide-ranging success of its final chorus, "Pilgrims' Hymn, " make this work especially noteworthy. This operatic work is discussed with regard to choice of text and musical characteristics. An interview with the librettist reveals vital information pertaining to the original concept of the project and The Three Hermits' transition from short story to dramatic setting. An interview was conducted with the composer to gain insight into how he perceives the project of composing opera and what processes are followed in its completion.