Jason Hoogerhyde

Jason Hoogerhyde is an Associate Professor of Music Theory and Composition at Southwestern University's Sarofim School of Fine Arts, where he has taught since 2004. He previously served as Chair of the Music Department from 2010-2015 and taught for five years at Lawrence University's Conservatory of Music.

Dr. Hoogerhyde earned his D.M.A. in Composition from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, an M.M. in Composition from Boston University, and a B.M. in Theory and Composition from Lawrence University. His principal composition teachers included Allen Gimbel, Joyce Mekeel, Lukas Foss, Allen Sapp, Samuel Adler, Darrell Handel, and Ricardo Zohn-Muldoon.

Hoogerhyde's compositional work explores the more elusive elements of human experience: the dark corners of memory, life's defining ephemeral moments, and glimpses of our integral connection with the world. His music spans orchestral works, opera, chamber ensembles, and vocal compositions that have been performed internationally across the United States, Europe, and Asia. His compositions often investigate the intersection between visual art and music, most notably in his opera The Color of Dissonance which examines the relationship between Wassily Kandinsky, Gabriele Münter, and Arnold Schönberg.

His recent compositions demonstrate a continued exploration of contemporary classical forms with works like Revolve/Retract (2019) for percussion with choreography, and multiple performances of The Don Juan Project. His output shows consistent development across chamber music, vocal works, and larger orchestral compositions, with particular strength in creating evocative textures and emotional depth.

• Excellence in Teaching Award from University of Cincinnati
• Nominations from Austin Critics' Table Awards for 'The Color of Dissonance' (outstanding original composition)
• Nominations from Austin Critics' Table Awards for 'Lament' (outstanding symphonic performance)

Hoogerhyde has mentored numerous students including Brayden Carr '23, whose composition was performed at the Valencia International Performing Arts Festival in Spain. He has served as classical music critic for the Cincinnati Enquirer and has been artist-in-residence at prestigious institutions including the Ucross Foundation and Dorland Mountain Arts Colony. His work continues to be performed internationally, reflecting his significant contribution to contemporary American composition.