Steven Mackey is noted for his highly individual idiom, a multi-layered play of rhythm and sonority * incorporates and transforms references to classical and popular music in a way that is "lithe, subtle, and more than a little playful" (Tim Page, Newsday) * Champions include Michael Tilson Thomas, Dennis Russell Davies, and the Kronos Quartet * An accomplished guitarist, he has composed several works for the instrument including Deal, a concerto for electric guitar and ensemble or orchestra * Orchestral works have been commissioned by the American Composers Orchestra, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Netherlands Radio Symphony Orchestra, New World Symphony Orchestra, and the San Francisco Symphony, among others
Looking Ahead: Leila Josefowicz performs the world premiere of Mackey's new violin concerto, Beautiful Passing, with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra in Manchester UK on October 24.
"I imagine...a kind of vernacular music from a culture that doesn't really exist." — Steven Mackey
