Role

:

Composer

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Avant-Garde

 

 

Chamber

 

 

Keyboard

 

 

Orchestral

 

 

Vocal

 

Alexander Peci was a classical music composer born on January 15, 1978, in Tirana, Albania. He grew up in a family of musicians, with his father being a composer and his mother a pianist. From a young age, Peci showed a keen interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of five. Peci's parents recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue music. He attended the National Conservatory of Music in Tirana, where he studied composition and piano. After completing his studies, Peci continued his education at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna, Austria, where he earned a degree in composition. Peci's early works were heavily influenced by Albanian folk music, which he incorporated into his compositions. His music was characterized by its use of traditional Albanian instruments, such as the çifteli and the lahuta, and its incorporation of Albanian rhythms and melodies. One of Peci's early works, "Albanian Rhapsody," was premiered in 2001 by the Albanian National Symphony Orchestra. The piece was well-received and helped establish Peci as a rising star in the Albanian classical music scene. In 2003, Peci moved to the United States to pursue further studies in composition. He attended the Juilliard School in New York City, where he studied with renowned composers such as John Corigliano and Christopher Rouse. During his time at Juilliard, Peci's style began to evolve. He began incorporating elements of jazz and rock music into his compositions, creating a unique blend of classical and contemporary styles. His works became more experimental and daring, exploring new sounds and textures. One of Peci's most notable works from this period is "Concerto for Violin and Orchestra," which was premiered in 2007 by the Juilliard Orchestra. The piece was praised for its innovative use of orchestration and its incorporation of jazz and rock elements. After completing his studies at Juilliard, Peci returned to Albania, where he continued to compose and teach. He became a professor of composition at the National Conservatory of Music in Tirana, where he mentored a new generation of Albanian composers. Peci's later works continued to push the boundaries of classical music. He experimented with electronic music, incorporating synthesizers and other electronic instruments into his compositions. His music became more abstract and avant-garde, exploring new forms and structures. One of Peci's most ambitious works is "Symphony No. 1," which was premiered in 2015 by the Albanian National Symphony Orchestra. The piece is a sprawling, multi-movement work that incorporates elements of jazz, rock, and electronic music. It is a testament to Peci's versatility as a composer and his willingness to take risks and explore new territory. Throughout his career, Peci received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to classical music. In 2010, he was awarded the Order of Honor by the President of Albania for his achievements in music. He was also a recipient of the Fulbright Scholarship, which allowed him to study in the United States. Sadly, Peci passed away on December 23, 2018, at the age of 40. His death was a great loss to the Albanian classical music community, but his legacy lives on through his music. Peci's works continue to be performed and studied by musicians around the world, and his influence on the Albanian classical music scene will be felt for generations to come.

More....