Role

:

Composer Conductor  

Birth

:

1952

Period

:

Contemporary

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Choral

 

 

Concerto

 

James DeMars is a renowned American composer of classical music, known for his unique blend of Native American and Western classical music. He was born on August 12, 1947, in Phoenix, Arizona, to a family of musicians. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a classical pianist. Growing up in a musical family, DeMars was exposed to a wide range of music genres, which influenced his musical style. DeMars began his musical journey at a young age, learning to play the piano and guitar. He later studied composition at the University of Arizona, where he earned his Bachelor of Music degree. He then went on to earn his Master of Music degree from the University of Michigan, where he studied under the tutelage of renowned composer Leslie Bassett. Throughout his career, DeMars has composed a wide range of works, including orchestral pieces, chamber music, and operas. His music is known for its unique blend of Native American and Western classical music, which he has described as "a fusion of two great musical traditions." One of DeMars' most notable works is his opera "Guadalupe," which tells the story of the apparition of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego in Mexico in 1531. The opera features a blend of Western classical music and traditional Mexican music, and has been performed in both the United States and Mexico. Another notable work by DeMars is his "Concerto for Four Winds," which was commissioned by the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra. The concerto features four soloists, each representing one of the four winds, and is inspired by Native American mythology. DeMars has also composed a number of works for the Native American flute, including his "Canyon Music," which features the flute accompanied by a string quartet. The piece was inspired by the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon, and has been performed by numerous ensembles around the world. In addition to his work as a composer, DeMars is also a professor of music at Arizona State University, where he has taught for over 30 years. He has also been a guest lecturer at numerous universities and music festivals around the world. Throughout his career, DeMars has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 2015, he was awarded the Arizona Governor's Arts Award for his lifetime of work in music. He has also been recognized by the American Academy of Arts and Letters, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the American Composers Forum. In conclusion, James DeMars is a highly respected composer of classical music, known for his unique blend of Native American and Western classical music. His works have been performed by numerous ensembles around the world, and he has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of classical music. As a professor of music at Arizona State University, he has also inspired countless students to pursue careers in music and continue his legacy of blending musical traditions.

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