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Composer

 

Omar Thomas is a contemporary American composer and arranger of classical music. Born on June 11, 1984, in Brooklyn, New York, Thomas grew up in Bridgeport, Connecticut, where he began his musical journey at a young age. His parents were both music lovers, and they encouraged him to pursue his passion for music. Thomas started playing the piano at the age of five and later learned to play the trumpet. He attended the University of Connecticut, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies. He then went on to pursue a Master of Music degree in Jazz Composition at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. During his time at the New England Conservatory, Thomas studied with renowned composers such as Bob Brookmeyer, Lee Hyla, and Michael Gandolfi. He also had the opportunity to work with jazz legends such as Gunther Schuller, Dave Holland, and Jerry Bergonzi. After completing his studies, Thomas began his career as a composer and arranger. He has written music for a variety of ensembles, including jazz bands, wind ensembles, and orchestras. His works have been performed by numerous ensembles, including the Boston Pops Orchestra, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and the United States Air Force Band. One of Thomas's most notable works is his jazz-inspired orchestral suite, "A Mother of a Revolution!" This piece was commissioned by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and premiered in 2017. The suite is a tribute to the women who played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement, including Rosa Parks, Fannie Lou Hamer, and Coretta Scott King. Another notable work by Thomas is his wind ensemble piece, "Of Our New Day Begun." This piece was commissioned by the University of Texas at Austin Wind Ensemble and premiered in 2015. The piece is a tribute to the victims of the 2015 Charleston church shooting and features a gospel choir singing "Amazing Grace." Thomas's music is known for its unique blend of classical and jazz styles. He often incorporates elements of jazz, blues, and gospel music into his compositions, creating a sound that is both modern and timeless. His music is also known for its social and political themes, addressing issues such as race, gender, and social justice. In addition to his work as a composer, Thomas is also an educator. He has taught at numerous institutions, including the Berklee College of Music, the University of Texas at Austin, and the University of California, Los Angeles. He is currently an assistant professor of composition at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. Thomas has received numerous awards and honors for his work as a composer. In 2018, he was named a Guggenheim Fellow in Music Composition. He has also received commissions from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Boston Pops Orchestra, and the United States Air Force Band. In conclusion, Omar Thomas is a talented and innovative composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His unique blend of classical and jazz styles, combined with his social and political themes, has made him one of the most exciting composers of his generation. As he continues to create new works and inspire future generations of musicians, his legacy is sure to endure for years to come.

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