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Composer Conductor

 

George Mabry was an American composer of classical music, born on May 22, 1923, in Dallas, Texas. He was the youngest of three children and grew up in a musical family. His father was a violinist and his mother was a pianist, and they both encouraged their children to pursue music. Mabry began playing the piano at a young age and showed a natural talent for music. He studied piano with his mother and later with several other teachers. He also studied composition with the renowned composer Roy Harris. In 1942, Mabry enlisted in the United States Army and served in World War II. He was stationed in Europe and played the piano for the troops. After the war, he returned to the United States and continued his musical studies. Mabry's early compositions were influenced by the music of Aaron Copland and Roy Harris. He was also inspired by the folk music of the American South and incorporated these elements into his music. In 1950, Mabry received a Fulbright scholarship to study in Paris, France. He studied composition with Nadia Boulanger and was exposed to the music of the French Impressionists. This experience had a profound impact on his music and he began to incorporate more complex harmonies and textures into his compositions. Mabry's music is characterized by its lyricism, rhythmic vitality, and use of folk elements. He wrote in a variety of genres, including orchestral works, chamber music, choral music, and solo piano music. One of Mabry's most famous works is his Symphony No. 1, which was premiered by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra in 1955. The symphony is in three movements and is characterized by its use of folk melodies and rhythms. The second movement, in particular, is notable for its use of a pentatonic scale and syncopated rhythms. Mabry also wrote several works for choir, including his Missa Brevis, which was premiered by the Dallas Symphony Chorus in 1960. The mass is in five movements and is notable for its use of modal harmonies and chant-like melodies. In addition to his compositions, Mabry was also a respected music educator. He taught at several universities, including Southern Methodist University and the University of North Texas. He was also a guest lecturer at several other universities and was a frequent judge for music competitions. Mabry continued to compose and teach until his death on December 5, 2005, in Dallas, Texas. His music continues to be performed and recorded by orchestras and ensembles around the world.

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