Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1949

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Opera

 

 

Orchestral

 

 

Vocal

 

Michael Dellaira is a contemporary American composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born in 1949 in New York City, Dellaira grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a singer. From a young age, Dellaira was exposed to a wide range of musical styles, including jazz, classical, and popular music. Dellaira began his formal music education at the age of six, studying piano and composition. He went on to attend the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied composition with John Corigliano and David Del Tredici. After completing his studies, Dellaira began working as a freelance composer, writing music for a variety of ensembles and performers. Throughout his career, Dellaira has been known for his innovative approach to composition. He has drawn inspiration from a wide range of sources, including literature, visual art, and philosophy. His music is characterized by its complex harmonies, intricate rhythms, and rich textures. One of Dellaira's most notable works is his opera, "The Secret Agent," which premiered in 2011. Based on the novel by Joseph Conrad, the opera tells the story of a group of anarchists who plot to blow up the Greenwich Observatory in London. The opera was praised for its powerful music and compelling storyline, and it has been performed in several cities around the world. Another of Dellaira's notable works is his song cycle, "The Death of Webern," which was written in 1995. The cycle is based on the last moments of the composer Anton Webern's life, and it explores themes of mortality and transcendence. The cycle has been performed by several prominent singers, including Dawn Upshaw and Lucy Shelton. In addition to his work as a composer, Dellaira has also been an influential teacher and mentor. He has taught at several universities, including the University of Pennsylvania and the Curtis Institute of Music. Many of his students have gone on to have successful careers in music, and Dellaira is widely respected for his dedication to the education and development of young musicians. Overall, Michael Dellaira is a composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His innovative approach to composition, combined with his deep knowledge of music history and theory, has made him a respected figure in the field. His works continue to be performed and admired by audiences around the world, and his influence on the next generation of composers is sure to be felt for years to come.

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