Brian Calhoon is a percussionist and composer who has made a name for himself in the world of classical music. Born in 1985 in Rochester, New York, Calhoon grew up in a musical family and began playing the drums at a young age. He went on to study percussion at the Eastman School of Music, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 2007. After graduating from Eastman, Calhoon moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. He quickly established himself as a versatile and talented percussionist, performing with a variety of ensembles and artists. He has played with the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera, the American Symphony Orchestra, and the Orchestra of St. Luke's, among others. In addition to his work as a performer, Calhoon is also a composer. He has written music for a variety of ensembles, including percussion ensembles, chamber groups, and orchestras. His compositions have been performed by ensembles such as the New York Philharmonic, the Albany Symphony Orchestra, and the Eastman Wind Ensemble. One of Calhoon's most notable performances was his solo debut with the New York Philharmonic in 2014. He performed the world premiere of Christopher Rouse's percussion concerto, Der gerettete Alberich, under the baton of conductor Alan Gilbert. The performance was widely praised, with The New York Times calling Calhoon's playing "dazzling" and "virtuosic." Calhoon has also received numerous awards and honors for his work as a musician and composer. In 2012, he was awarded a grant from the Aaron Copland Fund for Music to support the recording of his debut album, Table Talk. The album, which features Calhoon's compositions for percussion ensemble, was released in 2014 to critical acclaim. In 2015, Calhoon was named a recipient of the New York Foundation for the Arts' Artists' Fellowship in Music/Sound. The fellowship provides financial support to artists in New York State who demonstrate exceptional talent and artistic excellence. Calhoon is also an active educator, teaching percussion at the State University of New York at Fredonia and the Eastman School of Music. He has given masterclasses and clinics at universities and music schools throughout the United States. Overall, Brian Calhoon is a talented and accomplished musician and composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His virtuosic playing and innovative compositions have earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting and dynamic percussionists working today.

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