Moss Freed

Moss Freed is a Lecturer in Composition and Performance at Goldsmiths, University of London's Music Department, where he teaches across undergraduate and postgraduate programs. He co-leads the Royal Academy of Music Improvisers' Ensemble and maintains an active performance career with ensembles including Spike Orchestra, Charlotte Keeffe Quartet, and his own groups Union Division and Let Spin.

His educational background includes:

• BMus (Hons) Music: University of Edinburgh (2004)
• Diploma: Berklee College of Music (2006)
• MMus Composition: Goldsmiths (2015)
• PhD Music Composition: University of Hull (2020)
• PGCert Arts & Humanities Research: University of Hull (2018)

Freed's research focuses on practice-led composition for improvisers, with particular emphasis on ensemble microtraditions, networked information flow, and collaborative decision-making frameworks. His work bridges composition theory and real-world ensemble practice, exploring how collective self-organization can function within structured improvisational contexts. Recent projects examine non-verbal communication systems in large ensembles and the relationship between compositional frameworks and individual performer freedom.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent trajectory toward developing malleable compositional models that prioritize performer agency while maintaining structural integrity. His work with Union Division demonstrates innovative approaches to large-group improvisation through bespoke hand-sign communication systems that enable real-time structural development without hierarchical leadership.

His notable awards include:

• NECAH PhD Funding (£43k, 2016-2019)
• Arts Council England Lottery Fund Development Grant (£7k, 2008)
• Bucher/Fraser Award from University of Edinburgh
• Support from Countess of Munster Trust
• Berklee World Scholarship Fund

Freed supervises Masters and PhD projects across composition, experimental music, improvisation, and ensemble leadership. His professional activities extend beyond Goldsmiths to include regular workshops at institutions like Leeds Conservatoire and More Music. He has released multiple albums on labels including Discus Music and Efpi Records, with works broadcast on BBC Radio 3, Jazz FM, BBC 6Music and BBC 1.

He leads several ensembles including Union Division (documented on the 'Micromotives' double album), Let Spin, and Moss Project, performing regularly at major venues including Ronnie Scotts, the Barbican, Southbank Centre, and Kings Place. His work has appeared on John Zorn's Tzadik label across four releases.