Role

:

Composer Conductor

Genre

:

Orchestral

 

Gary William Friedman is a renowned American composer, lyricist, and conductor who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. He was born on March 23, 1944, in Brooklyn, New York, and grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a singer, so he was exposed to music from a young age. Friedman began his musical journey by learning to play the piano at the age of six. He later studied composition and conducting at the Manhattan School of Music and the Juilliard School. During his studies, he was mentored by some of the most prominent composers of the time, including Leonard Bernstein, Aaron Copland, and Lukas Foss. In the early 1970s, Friedman gained recognition for his work in the musical theater. He collaborated with lyricist Will Holt on the hit musical "The Me Nobody Knows," which premiered off-Broadway in 1970. The show was a critical and commercial success and earned Friedman a Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Music. Friedman continued to work in the theater, composing music for several other productions, including "Taking My Turn," "The Last Supper," and "Sheba." He also wrote the music for the television special "Free to Be... You and Me," which aired in 1974 and became a cultural phenomenon. In addition to his work in the theater, Friedman has composed numerous works for the concert stage. His compositions range from solo piano pieces to large-scale orchestral works. Some of his most notable works include "The Vision of Isaiah," a choral work based on the biblical book of Isaiah, and "The Gift of the Magi," an opera based on the classic O. Henry short story. Friedman's music is known for its eclectic style, blending elements of classical, jazz, and popular music. He has also been praised for his ability to create music that is both accessible and sophisticated, appealing to a wide range of audiences. Throughout his career, Friedman has been recognized for his contributions to the world of music. He has received numerous awards and honors, including the ASCAP Foundation Richard Rodgers Award, the Kleban Award for Outstanding Lyricist, and the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Music. Today, Friedman continues to compose and conduct music, and his works are performed by orchestras and ensembles around the world. He is also a dedicated educator, teaching composition and conducting at the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York City. In conclusion, Gary William Friedman is a highly respected composer, lyricist, and conductor who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His eclectic style and ability to create music that is both accessible and sophisticated have earned him a place among the most celebrated composers of his generation.

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