Danny Leo

For the first “Composer of the Month” of 2016, we are thrilled to present Danny Leo.

Danny is one of 5 composers we commissioned to write us a piece for our annual THEY’RE ALIVE! 5.0 concert this spring, so read below for his interview, and then keep checking back each month for the other 4 amazing composers. And of course, mark your calendars for the concert on May 15th, 2016 where we will be premiering each of their pieces!

WSW: When did you start composing?
DL: I began my musical studies in violin at age 5 and composition when I was 12 years old.

WSW: What drew you to composing?
DL: I was always interested in notating music and making arrangements from a young age. I eventually began to experiment in writing my own works and it has been an important part of me ever since. I feel that this is the best way that I can express my musical voice.

WSW: Where do you usually compose?
DL: I usually compose in my apartment. I am the most comfortable there and it is easiest to focus.

WSW: What has been your biggest challenge in composing?
DL: I think one of the biggest challenges for any composer is finding their unique voice. I think about this a lot in my music and try to write in the most genuine and true way so that my compositional voice is best communicated.

WSW: Which composer do you admire?
DL: I strongly admire the music of Stravinsky and Ravel. I love that their music is both timeless and classic and I can always learn something new or interesting from the music.

WSW: What do you do in your free time?
DL: In my free time I like to spend time with my friends and family. I also like to relax by singing, listening to music, or watching shows.

WSW: What do you think about the THEY’RE ALIVE! series and new music in general?
DL: I am so thrilled to be a part of the THEY’RE ALIVE! series! I am of course a huge supporter of new music and the propagation and continuation of music written in our own time. I am so lucky to be a part of such a fantastic concert series with amazing musicians!

WSW: Tell us a little about the quintet!
DL: The quintet will be a single movement work comprising of various sections. The sections are linked through rhythmic and motivic material with a continuous rhythmic energy that flows through the piece. The closing section is a slow chorale that contrasts from the edgier and faster earlier material.

Danny’s Music: https://soundcloud.com/danny_leo