Role

:

Composer Conductor

Birth

:

1953

Genre

:

Concerto

 

Fred Stride is a Canadian composer and arranger who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born in Vancouver, British Columbia in 1956, Stride grew up in a musical family and began playing the piano at a young age. He later studied music at the University of British Columbia, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in composition. Stride's early compositions were heavily influenced by jazz and popular music, but he soon began to explore classical forms and techniques. His breakthrough came in 1985 with the premiere of his orchestral work "The Great Canadian Suite," which was commissioned by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. The piece, which incorporates elements of Canadian folk music, was well-received and helped establish Stride as a rising star in the classical music world. Stride went on to compose a wide range of works for orchestra, chamber ensembles, and solo instruments. His music is characterized by its lush harmonies, intricate rhythms, and inventive use of orchestration. He has also gained a reputation as a skilled arranger, having created numerous arrangements for jazz ensembles, big bands, and vocal groups. One of Stride's most notable works is his "Concerto for Jazz Orchestra and Symphony Orchestra," which was commissioned by the CBC Vancouver Orchestra in 1995. The piece features a jazz ensemble and a full symphony orchestra, and showcases Stride's ability to seamlessly blend jazz and classical elements. The concerto has been performed by orchestras around the world, including the London Symphony Orchestra and the Boston Pops. Another highlight of Stride's career is his work as a composer and arranger for the Vancouver Jazz Orchestra, a group he co-founded in 2000. The ensemble has released several albums featuring Stride's original compositions and arrangements, and has performed at jazz festivals across North America. Stride's music has also been featured in film and television, including the CBC television series "The Beachcombers" and the feature film "The Score." He has received numerous awards and honors for his work, including the SOCAN Award for Classical Composition in 1996 and the Western Canadian Music Award for Jazz Recording of the Year in 2004. In addition to his work as a composer and arranger, Stride is also an accomplished educator. He has taught at the University of British Columbia and Capilano University, and has served as a guest lecturer and clinician at universities and music schools around the world. Overall, Fred Stride's contributions to the world of classical music have been significant and far-reaching. His innovative compositions and arrangements have helped bridge the gap between jazz and classical music, and his work continues to inspire and influence musicians and audiences alike.

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