Role

:

Composer  

 

James Kazik is a contemporary American composer and arranger of classical music. He was born in 1977 in the state of Michigan, and grew up in a musical family. His father was a music teacher, and his mother was a pianist. Kazik began playing the trumpet at a young age, and quickly developed a passion for music. Kazik attended Central Michigan University, where he earned a degree in music education. After graduation, he worked as a music teacher in Michigan for several years. During this time, he also began composing and arranging music for his students to perform. In 2005, Kazik moved to Washington, D.C. to pursue a career as a composer and arranger. He quickly established himself as a talented and versatile musician, and began working with a variety of ensembles and organizations. One of Kazik's early successes was his arrangement of "The Star-Spangled Banner" for the United States Marine Band. The arrangement was performed at the inauguration of President Barack Obama in 2009, and received widespread acclaim. Kazik has since gone on to compose and arrange music for a wide range of ensembles, including orchestras, wind ensembles, and chamber groups. His works have been performed by some of the world's leading musicians and ensembles, including the Boston Pops Orchestra, the United States Army Band, and the London Symphony Orchestra. One of Kazik's most popular works is his arrangement of "The Great Locomotive Chase," a piece based on a true story from the American Civil War. The piece tells the story of a group of Union soldiers who stole a Confederate train and attempted to destroy railroad tracks in order to disrupt Confederate supply lines. The piece is known for its driving rhythms and dramatic melodies, and has become a favorite of wind ensembles around the world. Another notable work by Kazik is his "American Visions" suite, which was commissioned by the United States Air Force Band. The suite is a tribute to the American landscape, and features movements inspired by the Grand Canyon, the Great Plains, and the Appalachian Mountains. The piece is known for its lush harmonies and sweeping melodies, and has been performed by orchestras and wind ensembles around the world. Kazik's music is characterized by its accessibility and versatility. He is known for his ability to write music that is both challenging and enjoyable to perform, and his works have been praised for their ability to connect with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. In addition to his work as a composer and arranger, Kazik is also a sought-after clinician and educator. He has conducted workshops and masterclasses for musicians of all ages and skill levels, and is known for his ability to inspire and motivate students to pursue their musical passions. Overall, James Kazik is a talented and versatile composer and arranger who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. His works are known for their accessibility, versatility, and ability to connect with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

More....