Michael Gordon

The American composer Michael Gordon is known for his large-scale, high-energy works. He studied at New York University and the Yale School of Music, but early on he was also inspired by his introduction to underground rock bands in New York. His style is still characterised as a mix of rock, free jazz and classical modernism, among other genres.

Over the past thirty years, Gordon has produced a varied oeuvre, with pieces for smaller ensembles and major orchestral works, as well as music composed especially for recording studios. His four-part work Weather, written for string orchestra, was created on commission from the Siemens Foundation Kultur Program. Following a tour, the work was recorded in 1999, whereby various samples and beats were added to the sound of the strings, lending the composition a spookier and sharper character. The recording was met with great acclaim from critics and audiences alike.

Last update: 14 September 2023