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Catherine Likhuta is a Ukrainian-born composer who has made a name for herself in the world of classical music. Born on December 22, 1981, in Kiev, Ukraine, Likhuta grew up in a family of musicians. Her mother was a pianist, and her father was a composer and conductor. From a young age, Likhuta was exposed to classical music and began playing the piano at the age of four. Likhuta's parents recognized her talent and encouraged her to pursue music. She attended the Kiev Special Music School for Gifted Children, where she studied piano and composition. After completing her studies at the music school, Likhuta went on to study at the Tchaikovsky National Music Academy of Ukraine, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in composition. In 2004, Likhuta moved to the United States to pursue a Master's degree in composition at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. She later earned a Doctorate in composition from the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music and Dance. Throughout her career, Likhuta has received numerous awards and honors for her compositions. In 2009, she was awarded the ASCAP Morton Gould Young Composer Award for her piece "The Dream of the Butterfly." In 2010, she was awarded the Presser Graduate Music Award, which allowed her to travel to Europe to study contemporary music. Likhuta's compositions are known for their unique blend of traditional and contemporary elements. She often incorporates elements of Ukrainian folk music into her compositions, as well as electronic and experimental sounds. Her music has been performed by orchestras and ensembles around the world, including the Kiev Philharmonic Orchestra, the Kansas City Symphony, and the New York New Music Ensemble. One of Likhuta's most well-known compositions is "The Dream of the Butterfly," which was inspired by a Japanese folktale. The piece is scored for chamber orchestra and features a solo violin. It has been performed by orchestras and ensembles around the world and has received critical acclaim for its innovative use of sound and texture. Another notable work by Likhuta is "The Book of Sand," which was commissioned by the Kansas City Symphony. The piece is scored for orchestra and features a solo cello. It is inspired by the short story of the same name by Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges and explores themes of infinity and the nature of reality. Likhuta's music has been described as "evocative" and "visceral," with a unique blend of traditional and contemporary elements. She is known for her innovative use of sound and texture, as well as her ability to create music that is both emotionally powerful and intellectually stimulating. In addition to her work as a composer, Likhuta is also a dedicated educator. She has taught composition and music theory at the University of Missouri-Kansas City and the University of Kansas, and has served as a guest lecturer and composer-in-residence at universities and music festivals around the world. Overall, Catherine Likhuta is a talented and innovative composer who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Her unique blend of traditional and contemporary elements, combined with her dedication to education and mentorship, make her a valuable and important figure in the world of music.

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