Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1961

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Band

 

 

Choral

 

James Syler is a contemporary American composer of classical music. He was born on May 22, 1961, in Tyler, Texas, and grew up in a musical family. His father was a band director, and his mother was a choir director. Syler began playing the trumpet at a young age and later studied music at the University of Texas at Austin. Syler's early compositions were influenced by jazz and popular music, but he later turned to classical music. He has written works for orchestra, wind ensemble, choir, and chamber ensembles. His music is known for its rhythmic complexity, use of unconventional instruments, and incorporation of non-Western musical traditions. One of Syler's most famous works is "Blue," a concerto for alto saxophone and wind ensemble. The piece was commissioned by the United States Air Force Band and premiered in 2007. It has since been performed by numerous ensembles around the world. "Blue" is a virtuosic showcase for the saxophone soloist, with fast runs and intricate rhythms. The wind ensemble provides a colorful and dynamic accompaniment, with percussion instruments such as marimba and vibraphone adding to the texture. Another notable work by Syler is "Epitaph," a piece for string orchestra. The work was commissioned by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and premiered in 2002. "Epitaph" is a somber and reflective piece, with long, sustained melodies and rich harmonies. The piece was inspired by the events of September 11, 2001, and is dedicated to the victims of the terrorist attacks. Syler has also written several works for choir, including "Love Among the Ruins," a setting of a poem by Robert Browning. The piece was commissioned by the Texas Choral Directors Association and premiered in 2010. "Love Among the Ruins" is a lush and romantic work, with soaring melodies and lush harmonies. The piece is a tribute to the enduring power of love, even in the face of destruction and decay. In addition to his work as a composer, Syler is also a professor of music at the University of Texas at San Antonio. He has received numerous awards and honors for his compositions, including the National Band Association's William D. Revelli Composition Award and the American Bandmasters Association's Ostwald Award. Syler's music is characterized by its emotional depth, technical virtuosity, and eclectic influences. His works are performed by ensembles around the world and have been recorded on several labels, including Naxos and Mark Records. Syler continues to be an important voice in contemporary classical music, pushing the boundaries of the art form and exploring new sonic possibilities.

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