Role

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Composer

Birth

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1982

 

Kevin Lau is a Canadian composer who has made a name for himself in the world of classical music. Born in 1982 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Lau showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of four. He went on to study music at the University of British Columbia, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in composition. Lau's early compositions were influenced by the works of classical composers such as Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart. However, he also drew inspiration from contemporary composers such as John Adams and Steve Reich. His music is characterized by its use of complex rhythms and harmonies, as well as its incorporation of elements from a variety of musical traditions. One of Lau's early works, "Three Miniatures for Piano," was premiered in 2004 by pianist Corey Hamm. The piece consists of three short movements, each of which showcases Lau's skill at creating intricate and engaging melodies. The work was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and helped to establish Lau as a rising star in the world of classical music. In 2006, Lau was commissioned by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra to compose a piece for their annual New Music Festival. The resulting work, "The Eternal Earth," is a powerful and evocative piece that draws on elements of Chinese folk music and Western classical music. The piece features a solo erhu (a traditional Chinese stringed instrument) and a large orchestra, and was praised for its innovative use of instrumentation and its ability to bridge cultural divides. Lau's next major work was "Concerto for Violin and Orchestra," which was premiered in 2009 by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. The piece was written for violinist Mark Fewer, and showcases Lau's ability to create complex and engaging melodies that are both challenging and rewarding for the performer. The concerto was praised for its innovative use of orchestration and its ability to showcase the virtuosity of the soloist. In 2011, Lau was commissioned by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra to compose a piece for their New Creations Festival. The resulting work, "The Immigrant," is a powerful and moving tribute to the struggles and triumphs of immigrants to Canada. The piece features a large orchestra and a choir, and incorporates elements of traditional Chinese music, as well as Western classical music. The work was praised for its emotional depth and its ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. Lau's most recent work, "The Four Elements," was commissioned by the National Arts Centre Orchestra and premiered in 2018. The piece is a four-movement work that explores the themes of earth, air, water, and fire. Each movement is characterized by its use of different musical textures and instrumentation, and the work as a whole is a powerful and evocative tribute to the natural world. Throughout his career, Lau has been recognized for his contributions to the world of classical music. He has received numerous awards and honors, including the SOCAN Foundation's John Weinzweig Grand Prize for composition in 2009 and the Vancouver Mayor's Arts Award for music in 2016. His works have been performed by orchestras and ensembles around the world, and he continues to be a leading voice in the world of contemporary classical music.

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