Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

August 4, 1963 in New York City, NY

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Choral

 

Philip Lasser is a contemporary classical music composer who was born on February 14, 1963, in New York City. He grew up in a family of musicians, with his father being a violinist and his mother a pianist. Lasser began playing the piano at the age of four and showed a natural talent for music. He went on to study at the Juilliard School, where he earned his Bachelor of Music degree in piano performance. After completing his undergraduate studies, Lasser continued his education at the Juilliard School, where he earned his Master of Music degree in composition. He also studied with renowned composers such as Milton Babbitt, David Diamond, and Vincent Persichetti. Lasser's early compositions were heavily influenced by the music of his teachers, as well as by the works of composers such as Igor Stravinsky and Arnold Schoenberg. Lasser's music is characterized by its use of tonality and its incorporation of elements from various musical traditions, including jazz and world music. His compositions often feature complex rhythms and harmonies, as well as intricate melodic lines. Lasser's works have been performed by some of the world's leading orchestras and ensembles, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra. One of Lasser's most notable works is his Piano Concerto, which was premiered by the Boston Symphony Orchestra in 2000. The concerto is a virtuosic showcase for the soloist, with its fast-paced rhythms and intricate melodic lines. The work also features a lush orchestral accompaniment, with the orchestra providing a rich harmonic backdrop for the soloist's virtuosity. Another notable work by Lasser is his Symphony No. 1, which was premiered by the New York Philharmonic in 2005. The symphony is a large-scale work that features a wide range of musical styles and influences. The work is divided into four movements, each of which explores a different musical idea or theme. The symphony is notable for its use of complex rhythms and harmonies, as well as its incorporation of elements from jazz and world music. In addition to his work as a composer, Lasser is also a respected music educator. He has taught at the Juilliard School, the Manhattan School of Music, and the University of Southern California. Lasser is known for his innovative teaching methods, which emphasize the importance of creativity and individual expression in music. Overall, Philip Lasser is a highly respected composer and educator who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His works are characterized by their use of tonality and their incorporation of elements from various musical traditions, and they have been performed by some of the world's leading orchestras and ensembles. Lasser's innovative teaching methods have also had a significant impact on the next generation of musicians, ensuring that his legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.

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