Stephen Paulus Photo by Jennifer Bong, courtesy of Shuman Associates

The Annapolis Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1961, begins its first-ever composer residency with Stephen Paulus' visit. His residency marks a renewed commitment to new music on the part of the Orchestra, which is directed by Leslie B. Dunner. From this season forward, it hopes to commission a new work every two to three years. During this residency, Mr. Paulus will work collaboratively with a group of seventh- to ninth-graders on a 10-minute composition to be performed at the end of the residency. He will also work with local composers and arrangers to identify local talent to be showcased by the orchestra.

from Music of the Night (Labyrinthe of Dreams) 31 seconds The Lanier Trio

Stephen Paulus began composing at the age of 13 and has composed over 200 works for orchestra, voice, and chamber ensemble during his 25 years as a professional composer. He attended the University of Minnesota, where he earned his Master's in Music Theory and Composition and a Ph.D. in Composition under Dr. Paul Fetler. He has served as composer-in-residence at the Minnesota Orchestra under Sir Neville Marriner and at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra with Music Director Yoel Levi and the late Conductor Laureate Robert Shaw. Mr. Paulus has been commissioned by a wide variety of soloists and organizations and has been featured as resident composer at numerous festivals where his works were being performed. He is particularly interested in music education, and has devoted many of his compositional efforts to introducing young people to classical music in all its forms.