Michael Cooke

Liz Dilnot Johnson

Liz Dilnot Johnson‘s music spans an impressive array of genres, including dance works, films, opera, vocal and orchestral pieces, and intricate chamber music. Her compositions are performed globally, earning her widespread acclaim. Notably, her piece “When A Child Is A Witness – Requiem for Refugees” won the prestigious Ivors Composer Award in 2022 for Community and Participation.

Liz’s innovative spirit is further showcased in her award-winning music video “Can You Hear Me?” which features music from her large-scale cantata “I Stand At The Door.” Her intuition for creating impactful music is highly praised by critics and collaborators alike.

This year, 2024, marks the release of four new albums featuring Liz’s music, highlighting her versatility and profound creativity. From solo cello and piano works to saxophone and basset horn pieces, and a full album of choral music recorded by Ex Cathedra, where she has been composer-in-residence since 2021.

Liz’s journey began in Hampshire, South England, where she grew up by the sea and developed her love for music through the piano and cello. She pursued her passion for composition at Birmingham Conservatoire, eventually earning a PhD under the mentorship of Philip Cashian and Judith Weir.

Living in the picturesque Malvern Hills since 2009, Liz draws inspiration from her surroundings, as reflected in her latest commission from the Fitzwilliam String Quartet, “Borderlands.” Liz’s extensive career includes two decades of teaching at Birmingham Conservatoire, where she nurtured the next generation of composers.

Christopher North

Christopher North is a distinguished American composer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, renowned for his versatile contributions across various forms of media including film, television, theater, and dance. Born in Texas, North’s musical journey is marked by a rich tapestry of influences that span genres and geographies, making him a notable figure in the contemporary music scene.

With a base in Brooklyn, New York, since 1997, North has flourished in a highly competitive environment, becoming known for his ability to blend classical composition techniques with modern musical elements. His work often involves a deep collaboration with visual media, creating scores that enhance and elevate the narrative of films and theatrical performances.

North’s career highlights include composing scores for over 60 films, many of which have been recognized in international film festivals. His work has earned him accolades at venues like Slamdance and DOC NYC, and his compositions have been featured in prestigious events and performed in major venues such as Carnegie Hall. He is also a Grammy-nominated artist, reflecting his excellence in musical composition and production.

Beyond his work in film and studio, Christopher North has made significant contributions to concert music, often blending classical elements with his eclectic musical style. His concert works include a variety of art songs, chamber music, and symphonic pieces that have been performed across significant venues in New York City and beyond.

As an educator, North shares his extensive knowledge and experience by teaching various music courses at Berklee College of Music. His educational role extends beyond the classroom through numerous workshops and seminars, particularly focusing on film scoring and music production.

Christopher North’s dedication to his craft is paralleled by his passion for collaboration, often citing it as a key component of his creative process. His personal life reflects his artistic pursuits; he is deeply involved in various artistic activities, including photography and painting, which complement his musical endeavors.

Overall, Christopher North continues to be a vibrant force in the music industry, constantly seeking new ways to integrate music with other art forms and inspire the next generation of musicians and composers. His work not only enriches the lives of his listeners but also sets a high standard in the fusion of traditional and contemporary music techniques.

Beth Schenck

Beth Schenck is an accomplished saxophonist and composer known for her innovative contributions to contemporary jazz and experimental music. Her artistic journey is marked by a distinctive blend of melodic sensitivity, harmonic complexity, and an innovative spirit that transcends traditional jazz boundaries.

Early Life and Education

Beth Schenck’s musical path began in her formative years, driven by a deep passion for music. She pursued formal education at the University of Northern Iowa, earning a Bachelor of Music degree. Her quest for artistic growth led her to the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), where she completed a Master of Fine Arts in Jazz Studies. At CalArts, she honed her skills under the mentorship of renowned musicians, which significantly shaped her musical outlook.

Musical Career

As a versatile performer, Schenck’s saxophone playing is celebrated for its lyrical quality and emotional depth. She has performed widely, both as a solo artist and as a member of various ensembles, captivating audiences with her expressive sound and technical proficiency.

Beth Schenck’s work as a composer is equally noteworthy. Her compositions often explore rich emotional landscapes and intricate narratives, earning acclaim for their originality and impact. She frequently engages in collaborative projects, showcasing her ability to integrate diverse musical influences into a cohesive artistic vision.

Social Stutter

Beth Schenck leads the innovative saxophone quartet Social Stutter, featuring prominent musicians Kasey Knudsen, Phillip Greenlief, and Cory Wright. The group is known for blurring the lines between strictly written chamber music and the expansive realms of free jazz, creating a dynamic and responsive soundscape that evolves with each performance. Social Stutter’s ability to combine structured compositions with improvisational freedom has garnered them recognition in the Bay Area’s vibrant music scene. Their participation in events such as the Outsound New Music Summit has showcased their commitment to pushing musical boundaries and exploring new realms of expression.

Teaching and Mentorship

In addition to her performing career, Beth Schenck is dedicated to music education. She has taught at various institutions, sharing her expertise and inspiring young musicians. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes creativity, technical skill, and the importance of developing a unique musical voice.

Recognition and Impact

Beth Schenck has received recognition for her artistic contributions, with her work being praised for its emotional depth and innovative approach. Her influence extends beyond her performances, as she continues to shape the musical landscape through her compositions and educational efforts.

Conclusion

Beth Schenck remains a dynamic and influential figure in contemporary music. Her commitment to artistic exploration and her ability to convey deep emotions through her music have earned her a respected place among today’s leading musicians and composers. As she continues to create and inspire, Beth Schenck’s impact on the world of jazz and beyond is sure to grow.