Mark Frode Kilstofte

Mark Frode Kilstofte serves as Composer in Residence at Furman University, where he is celebrated for his lyrical compositions featuring engaging harmony and dramatic gestures. His works have been performed internationally from Moscow to Bangkok and featured on NPR's Performance Today.

His academic credentials include a Doctor of Musical Arts and Master of Music from the University of Michigan, and a Bachelor of Music from St. Olaf College. Training under prominent figures including Leslie Bassett, William Bolcom, and Andrew Imbrie shaped his artistic foundation.

Research focuses on contemporary classical composition across choral, orchestral, and chamber music genres, characterized by meticulous attention to sound architecture and emotional resonance. His string quartet compositions earned specific recognition through dedicated awards.

Major honors include:

• Guggenheim Fellowship and Rome Prize
• American Academy of Arts and Letters awards (Goddard Lieberson Fellowship, Charles Ives Scholarship)
• Multiple Aaron Copland Awards and ASCAP Rudolf Nissim Award
• South Carolina Arts Commission Artist Fellow (twice)
• Prix Henri Selmer-Paris and Composers Award for String Quartet

Kilstofte's career features commissions from the Dale Warland Singers and Fromm Foundation, supported by grants from the Mellon Foundation, Knight Foundation, and Meet the Composer. His teaching philosophy integrates technical mastery with artistic expression, emphasizing the importance of authentic musical voice development in students.