The Memphis Composers Institute, a new collaboration between the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, The Walden School, and the University of Memphis, debuts this February as a unique opportunity for emerging composers to develop their orchestral writing. The program culminates in a February 9 concert featuring the world premieres of four new orchestral works, including D. J. Sparr’s viola concerto, Extended Play, performed by Kimberly Sparr.
The Memphis Composers Institute was Sparr’s brainchild, and he reflects on the collaboration, saying, “I’m honored that The Walden School, Memphis Symphony, and University of Memphis came together to create the Memphis Composers Institute. More than anything, I’m excited for Sina Karachiani, Soomin Kim, and Evan Erickson to hear their orchestral pieces come to life and participate in this incredible weekend of music-making and camaraderie.”
As Artistic Coordinator, Sparr helped shape the program into a weekend of rehearsals, mentorship, and collaboration. A faculty member at The Walden School’s Creative Musicians Retreat, D. J. is also a frequent collaborator with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra as an electric guitar soloist and composer. A distinguished composer-performer, his work has been praised as “exemplary” (Gramophone) and “iridescent and wondrous” (The Mercury News).
The Memphis Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Kyle Dickson, will perform these new works at Harris Hall, University of Memphis, on February 9, 2025, at 2:00 PM.
Read more about the Memphis Composers Institute:
https://waldenschool.org/memphis-composers-institute-2025/
