Role

:

Composer  

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

March 1, 1940 in Chehalis, WA

 

Ralph Towner is a renowned American composer, guitarist, and pianist who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on March 1, 1940, in Chehalis, Washington, Towner grew up in a musical family. His mother was a piano teacher, and his father played trumpet in a local dance band. Towner started playing the piano at a young age and later picked up the guitar, which became his primary instrument. Towner's interest in music led him to study at the University of Oregon, where he earned a degree in composition and theory. During his time at the university, Towner was exposed to a wide range of musical styles, including jazz, classical, and folk music. He was particularly drawn to the music of jazz pianist Bill Evans, whose harmonic language and lyrical style would later influence Towner's own compositions. After graduating from college, Towner moved to New York City, where he quickly established himself as a sought-after session musician. He played on numerous recordings for artists such as Paul Winter, Tim Hardin, and Judy Collins. In 1970, Towner joined the jazz ensemble Oregon, which he co-founded with bassist Glen Moore, oboist Paul McCandless, and percussionist Collin Walcott. The group's unique blend of jazz, classical, and world music quickly gained a following, and they went on to release over 30 albums over the course of their career. Towner's solo career began in the early 1970s with the release of his debut album, "Diary." The album showcased Towner's virtuosic guitar playing and his ability to blend elements of jazz, classical, and folk music into a cohesive whole. Towner's subsequent albums, including "Solstice," "Matchbook," and "Blue Sun," further established him as a leading figure in the world of contemporary classical music. One of Towner's most significant contributions to the world of classical music is his use of the 12-string guitar. Towner's innovative approach to the instrument, which involved tuning the strings in unconventional ways and using a variety of playing techniques, helped to expand the sonic possibilities of the guitar and influenced generations of guitarists to come. Towner's compositions are characterized by their intricate harmonies, lyrical melodies, and complex rhythms. His music often draws on a wide range of influences, including jazz, classical, folk, and world music. Towner's compositions for solo guitar, such as "Icarus," "Green and Golden," and "Nardis," are particularly notable for their virtuosic playing and their ability to evoke a wide range of emotions. In addition to his work as a composer and performer, Towner has also been an influential educator. He has taught at the University of Oregon, the Cornish College of the Arts, and the New England Conservatory of Music, among other institutions. Towner's approach to teaching emphasizes the importance of developing a personal voice as a musician and encourages students to explore a wide range of musical styles and techniques. Throughout his career, Towner has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the world of classical music. He has been nominated for several Grammy Awards and has won several DownBeat magazine awards for his guitar playing and compositions. In 2016, Towner was inducted into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the state's music scene. In conclusion, Ralph Towner is a highly influential figure in the world of classical music.

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