Role

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Composer

Birth

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1945

Genre

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Keyboard

 

Wallace McClain Cheatham was an American composer, pianist, and educator who was born on June 13, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan. He was the youngest of three children born to his parents, who were both educators. Cheatham's father was a high school principal, and his mother was a teacher. Cheatham's parents encouraged him to pursue music from a young age, and he began playing the piano at the age of six. Cheatham attended Cass Technical High School in Detroit, where he studied music theory and composition. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Music degree from Wayne State University in 1965, where he studied with composer James Hartway. Cheatham then earned a Master of Music degree from the University of Michigan in 1967, where he studied with composer Leslie Bassett. After completing his education, Cheatham began his career as a composer and pianist. He performed as a soloist and chamber musician throughout the United States and Europe, and his compositions were performed by orchestras and ensembles around the world. Cheatham's music was known for its blend of classical and jazz influences, and he often incorporated African American spirituals and folk music into his compositions. One of Cheatham's most notable works is his Symphony No. 1, which was commissioned by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and premiered in 1977. The symphony is a tribute to the African American experience, and it incorporates elements of jazz and blues music. The work was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it helped establish Cheatham as a major figure in contemporary classical music. Cheatham also composed several works for solo piano, including his Piano Sonata No. 1, which was premiered by pianist Andre Watts in 1973. The sonata is a virtuosic work that showcases Cheatham's skill as a pianist and composer. Cheatham also composed several works for chamber ensembles, including his String Quartet No. 1, which was premiered by the Detroit String Quartet in 1975. In addition to his work as a composer, Cheatham was also a dedicated educator. He taught at several universities throughout his career, including the University of Michigan, Wayne State University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Cheatham was known for his commitment to promoting diversity in classical music, and he often incorporated African American music into his teaching and performances. Cheatham's contributions to classical music were recognized with several awards and honors throughout his career. He was awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship in 1981, and he was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters in 1998. Cheatham also received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Wayne State University in 2001. Cheatham continued to compose and perform throughout his life, despite battling health issues. He passed away on June 16, 2019, at the age of 76. Cheatham's legacy as a composer, pianist, and educator continues to inspire musicians and audiences around the world.

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