Role

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Composer

Birth

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1957

 

Joan Szymko is a renowned American composer, conductor, and educator who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born in 1957 in Connecticut, Szymko grew up in a family of musicians and was exposed to music from a young age. Her father was a jazz pianist, and her mother was a singer, which inspired her to pursue a career in music. Szymko began her musical education at the University of Connecticut, where she earned a Bachelor of Music degree in composition. She then went on to study at the University of Oregon, where she received a Master of Music degree in composition. During her time at the University of Oregon, Szymko studied under the tutelage of Robert Kyr, a renowned composer and conductor. After completing her studies, Szymko began her career as a composer and conductor. She has since become known for her choral compositions, which have been performed by choirs around the world. Her works are characterized by their emotional depth, intricate harmonies, and powerful messages. One of Szymko's most famous works is "It Takes a Village," a choral piece that was commissioned by the Portland Gay Men's Chorus in 1994. The piece was inspired by the African proverb "It takes a village to raise a child" and explores the idea of community and the importance of coming together to support one another. The piece has since become a staple of the choral repertoire and has been performed by choirs around the world. Another notable work by Szymko is "All Works of Love," a choral piece that was commissioned by the Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles in 2000. The piece was inspired by the life and work of Harvey Milk, a gay rights activist who was assassinated in 1978. The piece explores the themes of love, acceptance, and equality and has become a powerful anthem for the LGBTQ+ community. Szymko's other works include "The Peace of Wild Things," "I Dream a World," and "The Singing Place." Her compositions have been performed by some of the world's most renowned choirs, including the San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus, the Seattle Men's Chorus, and the Los Angeles Master Chorale. In addition to her work as a composer, Szymko is also an accomplished conductor and educator. She has conducted choirs around the world and has served as a guest conductor at numerous festivals and workshops. She has also taught at several universities, including the University of Oregon and Portland State University. Szymko's contributions to the world of classical music have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. In 2019, she was awarded the prestigious Raymond W. Brock Memorial Commission by the American Choral Directors Association. The award is given to a composer who has made significant contributions to the choral repertoire. Overall, Joan Szymko is a talented and accomplished composer, conductor, and educator who has made a significant impact on the world of classical music. Her compositions are characterized by their emotional depth, intricate harmonies, and powerful messages, and her work has been performed by choirs around the world. She continues to inspire and influence musicians and audiences alike with her music and her dedication to the art of choral music.

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