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Composer Performer

 

Andrew Smith is a contemporary classical music composer who was born in 1970 in Liverpool, England. He grew up in a family of musicians, with his father being a professional cellist and his mother a pianist. From a young age, Smith was exposed to classical music and began playing the piano at the age of five. Smith's musical education began at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, where he studied composition with Anthony Gilbert and piano with Ryszard Bakst. He later went on to study at the University of York, where he earned a PhD in composition under the guidance of Nicola LeFanu. Smith's early works were heavily influenced by the minimalist movement, with repetitive patterns and simple harmonies being a prominent feature. However, as he continued to develop as a composer, his style became more complex and varied, incorporating elements of jazz, folk music, and world music. One of Smith's most notable works is his choral piece "Lux et Veritas," which was commissioned by the Choir of New College, Oxford, in 2008. The piece is a setting of the Latin text "Light and Truth," and features intricate harmonies and soaring melodies. It has since become a popular choice for choirs around the world. Another highlight of Smith's career is his collaboration with the Norwegian vocal ensemble Trio Mediaeval. The group commissioned several works from Smith, including "Ave Maris Stella," which was released on their album "Folk Songs" in 2007. The piece is a hauntingly beautiful setting of a medieval hymn, featuring intricate vocal harmonies and a sense of otherworldly mystery. Smith has also composed several works for orchestra, including "The Four Seasons," which was commissioned by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra in 2011. The piece is a modern take on Vivaldi's famous work, featuring complex rhythms and harmonies that reflect the changing seasons in a more abstract way. In addition to his work as a composer, Smith is also a respected music educator. He has taught at several universities in the UK, including the University of York and the Royal Northern College of Music. He is known for his innovative teaching methods, which incorporate elements of improvisation and world music into traditional classical music education. Overall, Andrew Smith is a composer who has made a significant contribution to the world of contemporary classical music. His works are characterized by their intricate harmonies, complex rhythms, and incorporation of diverse musical influences. He continues to be an active composer and educator, inspiring a new generation of musicians to explore the boundaries of classical music.

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