Kati Agócs

Kati Agócs is a Professor of Composition at the New England Conservatory's College division. She specializes in orchestral, chamber, and vocal works, often blending contemporary techniques with cultural narratives. Her music is performed globally by ensembles like the Boston Symphony and Eighth Blackbird. She holds degrees from The Juilliard School and has studied at institutions including the Liszt Academy and Tanglewood. Agócs has received major awards including the Guggenheim Fellowship and Arts and Letters Award.

Education:

• MM and DMA, The Juilliard School
• Studies at Liszt Academy (Budapest), Aspen Music School, Tanglewood, Lester B. Pearson College, and Sarah Lawrence College

Research Interests: Agócs focuses on "elemental strength and generous lyricism" in composition, often incorporating Hungarian cultural heritage and textual collaborations. Her works explore sacred/secular dichotomies, extended instrumental techniques, and cross-genre narratives. Recent projects include the cantata Voices of the Immaculate and the horn concerto co-commissioned by five orchestras.

Awards:

• 2014 Arts and Letters Award
• 2013 Guggenheim Fellowship
• Two-time Juno Award nominee (2017 & 2022)
• Lifetime achievement in composition (American Academy of Arts and Letters)

Advising & Grants: Mentored students like Katherine Balch. Secured grants from Canada Council for the Arts, Chamber Music America, and New Music USA. Residencies include the Chelsea Music Festival and Metropolis Ensemble.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with ensembles such as Lorelei Ensemble, Boston Modern Orchestra Project (BMOP), and the Claremont Trio. Maintains a creative studio in Newfoundland.