Mark Lackey

Mark Lackey is a Professor of Music Theory and Composition at Samford University's School of the Arts. He is a composer, performer, and educator known for creating new music described as "buoyant, at times playful" with "a classical, yet unrestrained lyricism." His works span vocal, electronic, chamber, orchestral, and wind ensemble genres, premiered by ensembles like the Eastman Wind Orchestra and the Alabama Symphony Orchestra.

His research interests include contemporary music composition, electronic music, and the works of underrepresented composers such as Sophie Maria Westenholz, whose piano music he performs internationally. He has received grants and awards for his educational and compositional achievements, including recognition from the American Composers Forum and the Alabama State Council on the Arts.

• Doctor of Musical Arts in Composition, The Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University
• Master of Music in Theory Pedagogy, The Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University
• Master of Music in Composition, The Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Music, Lipscomb University

Mark Lackey has served as a faculty member at The Peabody Conservatory, The Johns Hopkins University, and Towson University prior to joining Samford University. He is a member of the American Composers Forum, the Birmingham Art Music Alliance (past president and treasurer), and Pi Kappa Lambda National Honor Society in Music.

Scientific Awards and Honors

• Johns Hopkins University Arts Innovation Grant
• Samford University Faculty Development Grant
• Samford University Innovative Technology Grant
• Alabama Orchestra Association's Composition Contest 2020 winner
• Alabama Orchestra Association's 2020 composer-in-residence
• Public reading by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra
• American Composers Forum Encore Grant
• Finalist status in the American Composer Competition of the Columbia (MD) Orchestra
• 2024 Artist Fellowship and grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts