Ayesu Lartey

Ayesu Lartey is an Assistant Professor of Music in Music Theory and Contemporary Commercial Music at the University of Wisconsin Parkside. He holds an MFA in Musical Theater Writing from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts (2011) and is a UW-Parkside alumnus. His expertise spans music composition, orchestration, vocal performance, and theatrical writing. Notable achievements include composing and writing the award-winning musical Lulu and the Long Walk (Best New Musical for Young Audiences) and contributing to What’s Left, commissioned by the New York Film Academy.

Teaching & Research:

• Teaches courses in Music Theory, Aural Training, and Contemporary Music Ensembles.
• Focuses on Music Theory, Playwriting, Musical Theater Composition, and Digital Orchestration.
• Explores luthiery (string instrument craftsmanship) and dramaturgical critique.

Awards & Recognition:

• Jonathan Larson Grant Finalist (2021).
• Recipient of the “Best New Musical” award.

Consulting: Specializes in dramaturgical analysis and music critique for theatrical productions.