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Walter Hartley was an American composer of classical music, born on August 15, 1927, in Washington, D.C. He grew up in a musical family, with his father being a professional violinist and his mother a pianist. Hartley began playing the piano at a young age and later learned to play the clarinet and saxophone. He attended the University of Maryland, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1950 and a Master of Music degree in 1951. After completing his studies, Hartley began his career as a music educator, teaching at various schools and universities throughout the United States. He also served in the United States Army during the Korean War, where he played in the Army Band. In 1956, he joined the faculty at Shenandoah Conservatory of Music in Winchester, Virginia, where he taught for over 30 years. Throughout his career, Hartley composed over 200 works for various ensembles, including orchestras, wind ensembles, and chamber groups. His compositions are known for their accessibility and melodic qualities, making them popular among both performers and audiences. One of Hartley's most famous works is his Concerto for 23 Winds, which was commissioned by the United States Air Force Band in 1965. The piece is scored for a large wind ensemble and features intricate rhythms and harmonies. It has since become a staple of the wind ensemble repertoire and is often performed by professional and student ensembles alike. Another notable work by Hartley is his Sonata for Alto Saxophone and Piano, which was written in 1963. The piece is characterized by its lyrical melodies and virtuosic saxophone writing. It has become a popular choice for saxophonists in competitions and recitals. Hartley also composed several works for string orchestra, including his Serenade for Strings, which was written in 1957. The piece is scored for a small string ensemble and features lush harmonies and delicate melodies. It has become a popular choice for community and school orchestras. In addition to his compositions, Hartley was also a respected music educator and conductor. He served as the conductor of the Shenandoah Conservatory Symphony Orchestra for over 20 years and was a frequent guest conductor for various ensembles throughout the United States. Hartley's contributions to the world of classical music were recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his career. In 1995, he was awarded the National Band Association's Citation of Excellence for his contributions to wind band music. He was also a recipient of the Shenandoah Conservatory's Distinguished Alumni Award and the Virginia Music Educators Association's Outstanding Music Educator Award. Walter Hartley passed away on April 27, 2016, at the age of 88. His legacy lives on through his compositions, which continue to be performed and enjoyed by musicians and audiences around the world.

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