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Composer

 

Michael Markowski is a contemporary American composer of classical music, known for his innovative and eclectic style. Born on October 3, 1986, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Markowski showed an early interest in music, learning to play the piano and trumpet at a young age. He attended Linn-Mar High School, where he was a member of the school's marching band and wind ensemble. Markowski went on to study music composition at Arizona State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 2009. During his time at ASU, he studied under the renowned composer James DeMars and was awarded the Outstanding Undergraduate Composition Award in 2008. He also received the prestigious BMI Student Composer Award in 2010 for his work "City Trees." Markowski's early compositions were heavily influenced by the music of John Williams and other film composers, as well as the works of classical composers such as Gustav Holst and Igor Stravinsky. His first major work, "Joyride," was written in 2007 and premiered by the ASU Wind Ensemble. The piece is a lively and energetic tribute to the thrill of driving fast cars, and features driving rhythms and soaring melodies. In 2011, Markowski received his Master of Music degree in composition from the University of Miami, where he studied under the composer Dennis Kam. During his time at UM, he wrote several notable works, including "Instinctive Travels," a suite for wind ensemble that was inspired by the music of the hip-hop group A Tribe Called Quest. Markowski's music is characterized by its eclectic style, blending elements of classical, jazz, rock, and pop music. His works often feature complex rhythms, unconventional harmonies, and unexpected shifts in tempo and mood. He is also known for his use of electronic instruments and sound effects, which he incorporates into his compositions to create a unique and immersive listening experience. One of Markowski's most popular works is "Shine," a piece for wind ensemble that was commissioned by the Indiana Bandmasters Association in 2012. The piece is a tribute to the resilience and strength of the human spirit, and features soaring melodies and driving rhythms. It has been performed by numerous high school and college bands across the United States and has become a staple of the wind ensemble repertoire. Another notable work by Markowski is "The Cave You Fear," a piece for orchestra that was commissioned by the Arizona State University Symphony Orchestra in 2014. The piece is a musical interpretation of the famous quote by the poet Rumi, "The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek." It features haunting melodies and lush harmonies, and has been praised for its emotional depth and complexity. Markowski's music has been performed by numerous orchestras and ensembles around the world, including the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, the United States Air Force Band, and the Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra. He has also collaborated with several notable musicians, including the jazz pianist Danilo Pérez and the composer and conductor Eric Whitacre. In addition to his work as a composer, Markowski is also an active educator and advocate for music education. He has served as a guest lecturer and clinician at numerous universities and music festivals, and has written several articles and essays on the importance of music education in schools.

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