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Composer

 

Michael Deák was a Hungarian-American composer and conductor who was born on October 22, 1945, in Budapest, Hungary. He was the son of a prominent Hungarian composer, László Deák, who was a professor at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest. Michael Deák grew up in a musical family and began playing the piano at a young age. He showed a natural talent for music and was encouraged by his father to pursue a career in music. Deák studied at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest, where he received a degree in composition. He also studied conducting with János Ferencsik and piano with György Sebők. After completing his studies, Deák worked as a conductor and composer in Hungary, where he gained a reputation for his innovative and experimental approach to music. In 1971, Deák emigrated to the United States and settled in New York City. He continued to compose and conduct, and his works were performed by orchestras and ensembles throughout the United States and Europe. Deák was known for his eclectic style, which blended elements of classical, jazz, and world music. One of Deák's most notable works is his opera, "The Secret Agent," which is based on the novel by Joseph Conrad. The opera premiered in 1984 at the Brooklyn Academy of Music and was later performed at the Spoleto Festival in Italy. The opera was praised for its innovative use of electronic music and its powerful portrayal of the psychological struggles of the characters. Deák also composed a number of orchestral works, including "Symphony No. 1," which was premiered by the American Symphony Orchestra in 1980. The symphony is a complex and dynamic work that showcases Deák's skill as a composer. It features a wide range of musical styles and influences, including jazz, rock, and classical music. In addition to his work as a composer, Deák was also a respected conductor. He served as the music director of the New York Chamber Symphony from 1982 to 1992 and conducted numerous orchestras and ensembles throughout the United States and Europe. Deák was known for his ability to bring out the best in his musicians and for his innovative interpretations of classical works. Throughout his career, Deák received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to music. In 1985, he was awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship, which allowed him to continue his work as a composer. He was also a recipient of the ASCAP Deems Taylor Award and the American Academy of Arts and Letters Music Award. Despite his success as a composer and conductor, Deák remained humble and dedicated to his craft. He continued to compose and conduct until his death on December 31, 2017, at the age of 72. His legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.

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