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Composer Performer

 

Gilda Lyons is a contemporary classical music composer who has made a name for herself in the world of music. Born in 1975 in Memphis, Tennessee, Lyons grew up in a family of musicians. Her mother was a singer and her father was a jazz pianist, and they both encouraged her to pursue music from a young age. Lyons began her musical education at the age of five, when she started taking piano lessons. She quickly showed a talent for music, and by the time she was a teenager, she was already composing her own pieces. She went on to study music at the University of Memphis, where she earned a Bachelor of Music degree in composition. After completing her undergraduate studies, Lyons moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. She enrolled in the graduate program in composition at the Manhattan School of Music, where she studied with some of the most respected composers in the field. During this time, she also worked as a freelance composer and performer, collaborating with a variety of musicians and artists. Lyons' early works were heavily influenced by the music of the 20th century avant-garde, particularly the works of composers like John Cage and Morton Feldman. Her compositions were characterized by their experimental structures and unconventional use of sound. However, as she continued to develop as a composer, Lyons began to incorporate more traditional elements into her music, such as tonality and melody. One of Lyons' most notable works is her opera "A New Kind of Fallout," which premiered in 2012. The opera tells the story of a family living in the aftermath of a nuclear disaster, and explores themes of survival, loss, and hope. The music is a blend of classical and contemporary styles, with elements of jazz and rock music woven throughout. The opera has been praised for its powerful storytelling and innovative use of music. Another notable work by Lyons is her song cycle "The Cancer Journals," which was inspired by the writings of poet and activist Audre Lorde. The cycle explores Lorde's experiences with breast cancer, and the music is a haunting and emotional reflection on the disease and its impact on those who suffer from it. Lyons has also composed a number of works for chamber ensembles, including "The River Within Us," which was commissioned by the American Composers Orchestra. The piece is a meditation on the Mississippi River, and features a variety of instruments, including strings, percussion, and electronics. In addition to her work as a composer, Lyons is also an accomplished performer. She has sung with a number of ensembles, including the New York Philharmonic and the Metropolitan Opera. She is also a founding member of the vocal ensemble The Bowers Fader Duo, which specializes in contemporary classical music. Throughout her career, Lyons has been recognized for her contributions to the world of music. She has received numerous awards and honors, including the Aaron Copland Award and the ASCAP Morton Gould Young Composer Award. Her music has been performed by some of the most respected ensembles in the world, and she continues to be a leading voice in contemporary classical music.

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