Role

:

Composer Conductor Performer

Birth

:

1964 in Dublin, Ireland

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

Michael McGlynn is a contemporary Irish composer and musician who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born in Dublin in 1964, McGlynn grew up in a family of musicians and was exposed to music from a young age. His father was a singer and his mother played the piano, and they encouraged their children to pursue music as a career. McGlynn began his musical education at the Royal Irish Academy of Music in Dublin, where he studied piano and composition. He later went on to study at Trinity College Dublin, where he earned a degree in music. During his time at Trinity, McGlynn became interested in choral music and began to compose pieces for choirs. In 1987, McGlynn founded the vocal ensemble Anúna, which quickly gained a reputation for its innovative approach to choral music. Anúna's music draws on a wide range of influences, including traditional Irish music, medieval chant, and contemporary classical music. McGlynn's compositions for Anúna are characterized by their intricate harmonies, complex rhythms, and haunting melodies. One of McGlynn's most famous compositions for Anúna is "Dúlamán," which is based on a traditional Irish folk song. The piece features a driving rhythm and intricate vocal harmonies, and has become a staple of Anúna's repertoire. Another notable composition is "The Wild Song," which was commissioned by the BBC for the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games in London. The piece features a choir of over 600 singers and is a celebration of the natural world. In addition to his work with Anúna, McGlynn has composed music for a wide range of ensembles and soloists. His compositions have been performed by orchestras, choirs, and soloists around the world, and he has received numerous awards and accolades for his work. One of McGlynn's most notable works for orchestra is "Beyond the Ninth Wave," which was commissioned by the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland. The piece is inspired by the mythological stories of the Irish sea god Manannán mac Lir, and features a wide range of instruments, including uilleann pipes, bodhrán, and harp. McGlynn has also composed a number of works for soloists, including "The Seven Heavens," which was written for the renowned Irish harpist Laoise Kelly. The piece is a tribute to the seven planets of the ancient world and features intricate harp melodies and complex rhythms. In addition to his work as a composer, McGlynn is also a respected conductor and arranger. He has conducted a number of orchestras and choirs, and has arranged music for a wide range of ensembles, including Anúna and the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland. Overall, Michael McGlynn is a highly respected composer and musician who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. His innovative approach to choral music and his ability to draw on a wide range of influences have made him one of the most exciting and original composers working today.

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