معرفی
David J. Colson is Professor of Theory and Composition at Western Michigan University's Irving S. Gilmore School of Music, where he served as Director of the School of Music from 2007–2014. Previously, he chaired the Department of Music and held the David W. and Helen E.F. Lantis University Professorship—the first endowed professorship—at California State University–Chico.
His educational background includes:
- D.M.A. in Composition from Rice University (Sallie Shepard Perkins Prize recipient)
- M.A. from the University of Iowa (Philip Greely Clapp Composition Award)
- B.M. from the University of Michigan (studied percussion with Charles Owen and composition with Curtis Curtis-Smith, William Bolcom, and others)
Professor Colson's creative research focuses on contemporary classical composition across diverse ensembles—from solo works like Medusa's Eye for guitar to orchestral pieces such as Imago and The Conjunction of Uncertain Conditions. His compositional output spans choral works (Lasciatemi morire), chamber music (Zazen for string trio), and percussion-focused compositions (Mandala, Percussion Piece No. 5), often exploring innovative textures through collaborations with ensembles like the Dorian Wind Quintet and Concordia String Trio. His theoretical work intersects with performance practice through extensive percussion and conducting activities.
Key recognitions include:
- MacDowell Colony Fellowship
- Grammy-nominated recording of Crumb's Ancient Voices of Children (2006)
- Annual composer residency at Colorado College New Music Symposium
As a performer, Colson maintains dual expertise: he served as Music Director of the Chico Symphony Orchestra (1994–2000) and has conducted university orchestras at Rice University and Colorado College. His percussion career includes performances with the Houston Symphony, American Ballet Theatre, and Toledo Symphony Orchestra, documented on Bridge Records, New World Records, and other labels. His scholarly impact extends through publications with Avera Music Press and recordings on MMC Recordings Ltd. and Red Mark.
