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Composer

 

Ben Foskett is a British composer of classical music, born in 1977 in London. He grew up in a musical family, with his father being a jazz pianist and his mother a classical pianist. Foskett began playing the piano at a young age and later learned to play the guitar and drums. Foskett studied music at the University of Cambridge, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in music. He then went on to study composition at the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he earned a Master of Music degree. Foskett's early works were influenced by the music of composers such as Stravinsky, Ligeti, and Xenakis. His compositions often feature complex rhythms and harmonies, and he is known for his use of microtonality and extended techniques. One of Foskett's early works, "String Quartet No. 1," was premiered in 2003 by the Arditti Quartet. The piece features intricate rhythms and harmonies, and showcases Foskett's interest in microtonality. In 2005, Foskett was commissioned by the London Sinfonietta to write a piece for their 40th anniversary season. The resulting work, "Aphorisms," was premiered at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in London. The piece features a large ensemble of instruments, including percussion, piano, and strings, and is characterized by its complex rhythms and harmonies. Foskett's music has been performed by a number of prominent ensembles and orchestras, including the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the London Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Ensemble Intercontemporain. He has also been commissioned by a number of festivals and organizations, including the Aldeburgh Festival, the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival, and the Royal Opera House. In addition to his work as a composer, Foskett is also a lecturer in music at the University of Birmingham. He has written articles and essays on music, and has given lectures and talks on his own work and on contemporary music in general. Foskett's more recent works have continued to explore complex rhythms and harmonies, as well as the use of microtonality and extended techniques. His 2016 piece "Concerto for Orchestra" was commissioned by the BBC Symphony Orchestra and premiered at the Barbican Centre in London. The piece features a large orchestra and is characterized by its intricate rhythms and use of microtonality. Foskett's music has been praised for its originality and complexity, as well as its emotional depth and expressiveness. His works often challenge the listener's expectations and push the boundaries of contemporary classical music. Overall, Ben Foskett is a highly regarded composer of contemporary classical music, known for his innovative and challenging works. His music has been performed by some of the world's leading ensembles and orchestras, and he continues to be a prominent figure in the contemporary classical music scene.

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