Role

:

Composer Conductor

Birth

:

1948

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Concerto

 

 

Orchestral

 

Henry Wolking was an American composer and pianist who was born on August 22, 1946, in Missoula, Montana. He grew up in a musical family, with his father being a jazz pianist and his mother a classical pianist. Wolking began playing the piano at a young age and showed a natural talent for music. He went on to study music at the University of Montana, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1968. After completing his undergraduate studies, Wolking moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. He studied composition with John Corigliano at the Manhattan School of Music and later with David Diamond at the Juilliard School. During this time, Wolking also worked as a pianist and arranger for various jazz and pop musicians, including Chuck Mangione and Blood, Sweat & Tears. Wolking's early compositions were heavily influenced by jazz and popular music, but he later turned to more traditional classical forms. His works often featured complex harmonies and rhythms, as well as a strong sense of melody. Wolking's music was also known for its emotional depth and expressive power. One of Wolking's most notable works is his Symphony No. 1, which was premiered by the Montana Symphony Orchestra in 1980. The symphony is a large-scale work that showcases Wolking's skill as a composer. It features a wide range of musical styles, from lush romantic melodies to driving rhythmic passages. The symphony was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it helped establish Wolking as a major figure in American classical music. Wolking went on to compose a number of other works for orchestra, including his Symphony No. 2, which was premiered by the Spokane Symphony Orchestra in 1990. This symphony is a more introspective work than his first, with a focus on lyrical melodies and subtle harmonies. It was also well-received by audiences and critics. In addition to his orchestral works, Wolking also composed a number of chamber music pieces. One of his most famous chamber works is his String Quartet No. 1, which was premiered by the Kronos Quartet in 1985. This piece is a complex and challenging work that showcases Wolking's skill as a composer. It features intricate rhythms and harmonies, as well as a wide range of emotions. Wolking's music was also influenced by his interest in literature and poetry. He often set texts to music, including the poetry of William Butler Yeats and the writings of James Joyce. One of his most famous vocal works is his song cycle, "The Tower," which sets Yeats' poetry to music. The cycle was premiered by soprano Dawn Upshaw and pianist Gilbert Kalish in 1986 and has since been performed by many other singers and pianists. Throughout his career, Wolking was recognized for his contributions to American classical music. He received numerous awards and honors, including a Guggenheim Fellowship in 1982 and a National Endowment for the Arts Composer Fellowship in 1985. He was also a member of the American Academy of Arts and Letters. Sadly, Wolking passed away on December 31, 2019, at the age of 73. However, his music continues to be performed and admired by musicians and audiences around the world. His legacy as a composer and pianist will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of musicians.

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