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Composer Performer

 

Greg Saunier is a renowned American composer and musician, best known as the drummer and founding member of the experimental rock band Deerhoof. Born on May 10, 1969, in New York City, Saunier grew up in a musical family and started playing drums at a young age. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a classical pianist, which exposed him to a wide range of musical genres from an early age. Saunier attended the Oberlin Conservatory of Music in Ohio, where he studied percussion and composition. During his time at Oberlin, he met Satomi Matsuzaki, who would later become the lead vocalist of Deerhoof. Saunier and Matsuzaki formed Deerhoof in 1994, along with guitarist Rob Fisk and bassist Greg Rodriguez. Deerhoof quickly gained a reputation for their unique sound, which blended elements of punk, noise rock, and avant-garde music. Saunier's drumming was a key component of the band's sound, characterized by his frenetic energy and unconventional rhythms. Deerhoof released their debut album, "The Man, The King, The Girl," in 1997, and have since released over 15 albums, including "Reveille" (2002), "Friend Opportunity" (2007), and "Mountain Moves" (2017). In addition to his work with Deerhoof, Saunier has also composed music for film, dance, and theater. He has collaborated with choreographer Trajal Harrell on several productions, including "Twenty Looks or Paris is Burning at The Judson Church (S)" and "The Ghost of Montpellier Meets the Samurai." Saunier has also composed music for the films "The Color Wheel" (2011) and "The Comedy" (2012). Saunier's compositions often incorporate elements of improvisation and experimentation, reflecting his background in avant-garde music. His work is characterized by its unpredictability and willingness to push boundaries. In 2015, Saunier released his first solo album, "Husband," which featured a collection of experimental compositions for percussion and electronics. One of Saunier's most notable compositions is "Deerhoof Chamber Variations," a piece he composed for the classical ensemble yMusic. The piece was commissioned by the Ecstatic Music Festival in 2014 and premiered at the Merkin Concert Hall in New York City. "Deerhoof Chamber Variations" reimagines several Deerhoof songs as chamber music, showcasing Saunier's ability to bridge the gap between classical and experimental music. Saunier's work has been recognized with several awards and honors. In 2012, he was awarded a grant from the Foundation for Contemporary Arts, and in 2015, he was named a United States Artists Fellow. Saunier has also been a guest lecturer at several universities, including Harvard, Columbia, and the University of California, Berkeley. In conclusion, Greg Saunier is a highly influential composer and musician, known for his innovative approach to music and his willingness to experiment with different genres and styles. His work with Deerhoof has helped to redefine the boundaries of rock music, while his compositions for film, dance, and theater have showcased his versatility as a composer. Saunier's contributions to the world of music have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, and his influence on contemporary music is sure to continue for years to come.

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