Role

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Composer

Period

:

Contemporary

 

 

Modern

Genre

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Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

Craig Carnahan is a renowned American composer of classical music, known for his unique style and innovative approach to composition. Born in 1951 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Carnahan grew up in a family of musicians and was exposed to music from a young age. His father was a jazz pianist and his mother was a singer, and they both encouraged him to pursue his passion for music. Carnahan began his formal music education at the University of Minnesota, where he studied composition with Dominick Argento and Paul Fetler. He later went on to earn a Master's degree in composition from the University of Michigan, where he studied with William Bolcom and Leslie Bassett. Throughout his career, Carnahan has composed a wide range of works, including orchestral pieces, chamber music, choral music, and operas. His music is known for its intricate harmonies, complex rhythms, and use of unconventional instruments and sounds. One of Carnahan's most notable works is his opera, "The Beggar's Opera," which was commissioned by the Minnesota Opera in 1986. The opera is based on John Gay's 18th-century play of the same name and tells the story of a group of thieves and prostitutes in 18th-century London. The opera was well-received by audiences and critics alike and helped establish Carnahan as a major figure in the world of contemporary opera. Another notable work by Carnahan is his "Concerto for Marimba and Orchestra," which was commissioned by the Minnesota Orchestra in 1995. The concerto features a solo marimba and is known for its intricate rhythms and use of unconventional percussion instruments. The piece has been performed by orchestras around the world and has become a staple of the marimba repertoire. Carnahan's choral music is also highly regarded, with works such as "The Song of the Land," "The Road Not Taken," and "The Sunflower," all of which have been performed by choirs around the world. His choral music is known for its lush harmonies and use of text from a variety of sources, including poetry and folk songs. In addition to his work as a composer, Carnahan is also a respected educator and has taught composition at a number of universities, including the University of Minnesota, the University of Michigan, and St. Olaf College. He has also served as a guest lecturer and conductor at a number of music festivals and workshops around the world. Throughout his career, Carnahan has received numerous awards and honors for his work, including grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and the American Composers Forum. He has also been commissioned by a number of major orchestras and ensembles, including the Minnesota Orchestra, the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and the Dale Warland Singers. Today, Carnahan continues to compose new works and is widely regarded as one of the most important composers of contemporary classical music. His music is known for its innovative approach to composition and its ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level.

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