Role

:

Composer

Genre

:

Choral

 

Mark Hayes is a renowned American composer, arranger, and pianist who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on January 30, 1953, in Kansas City, Missouri, Hayes grew up in a musical family where his mother was a church pianist and his father was a choir director. He started playing the piano at the age of six and showed a natural talent for music. Hayes attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance. He later pursued a Master of Music degree in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from the University of Kansas. During his studies, Hayes developed a keen interest in choral music and began arranging and composing pieces for choirs. After completing his studies, Hayes worked as a church musician and a music educator. He served as the Director of Music at the First United Methodist Church in Wichita, Kansas, and later at the First Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee. He also taught music at the high school and college levels. Hayes gained recognition as a composer and arranger in the 1990s when he started publishing his works through Lorenz Publishing Company. His compositions and arrangements are known for their unique blend of classical, gospel, and jazz styles. He has written numerous pieces for choirs, soloists, and instrumental ensembles. One of Hayes' most popular works is his arrangement of the hymn "Amazing Grace." His version of the hymn features a gospel-style piano accompaniment and a powerful choral arrangement that has become a staple in many church services. Another popular piece by Hayes is his arrangement of "The Lord's Prayer," which has been performed by choirs around the world. Hayes has also composed several original works, including his "Requiem," which was premiered in 2003. The piece is a tribute to the victims of the September 11th terrorist attacks and features a full orchestra, choir, and soloists. The "Requiem" has been performed by numerous orchestras and choirs across the United States. In addition to his work as a composer and arranger, Hayes is also an accomplished pianist. He has released several albums of solo piano music, including "All Is Well," which features his arrangements of Christmas carols and hymns. He has also performed as a guest artist with orchestras and choirs around the world. Hayes has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 2010, he was inducted into the Baylor University School of Music Hall of Fame. He has also been recognized by the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) for his contributions to choral music. Hayes continues to compose, arrange, and perform music today. His works are performed by choirs and orchestras around the world and have become a staple in many church services. He is known for his unique blend of classical, gospel, and jazz styles, and his ability to create powerful and moving pieces of music.

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