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Jennifer Jolley is a contemporary classical music composer who was born in 1981 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She grew up in a musical family, with her mother being a pianist and her father a jazz musician. Jolley began playing the piano at a young age and later learned to play the trumpet and French horn. She attended the University of Southern California, where she earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Composition. She then went on to earn a Master of Music degree in Composition from the University of Michigan and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Composition from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Jolley's music is known for its unique blend of humor, drama, and emotional depth. She draws inspiration from a wide range of sources, including literature, visual art, and pop culture. Her compositions often feature unconventional instrumentation and explore complex themes such as identity, memory, and social justice. One of Jolley's most notable works is her opera "The Clever Artifice of Harriet and Margaret," which premiered in 2014 at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. The opera tells the story of two women who fall in love in 18th-century England and must navigate the societal pressures and prejudices of the time. The work received critical acclaim for its innovative score and powerful storytelling. Another notable work by Jolley is her chamber piece "Prisoner of Conscience," which was commissioned by the New York-based ensemble loadbang. The piece is based on the true story of a Russian activist who was imprisoned for his political beliefs and features a haunting vocal line that represents the protagonist's inner thoughts and emotions. Jolley has also composed several works for orchestra, including "The Eyes of the World Are Upon You," which was commissioned by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. The piece is a tribute to the 1960 presidential debate between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon and features a dramatic, cinematic score that captures the tension and excitement of the event. In addition to her work as a composer, Jolley is also an active educator and advocate for new music. She has taught at several universities and conservatories, including the University of Texas at San Antonio and the University of Nevada, Reno. She has also served as a guest lecturer and clinician at numerous institutions and festivals, including the Midwest Composers Symposium and the Charlotte New Music Festival. Jolley's contributions to the world of classical music have been recognized with several awards and honors. She has received grants and commissions from organizations such as the American Composers Forum, the Barlow Endowment for Music Composition, and the Fromm Music Foundation. She has also been a finalist for the Rome Prize and the American Prize in Composition. Overall, Jennifer Jolley is a talented and innovative composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Her unique voice and powerful storytelling have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated following of fans and performers. As she continues to create new works and inspire the next generation of composers, her impact on the field is sure to be felt for years to come.

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