David Maslanka

'Music is one of the expressions of the soul ... If a person is prepared artistically, then a sudden eruption of soul force might appear as a composition or a powerful performance. The person may have no idea where the force came from.' - David Maslanka

American composer David Maslanka was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts on 30 August 1943. He spent his childhood in New England, and some of his compositions are influenced by a close relationship with the ocean. He studied at Oberlin Conservatory (including a year at the Mozarteum in Salzburg) and at Michigan State University, where he studied composition with H Owen Reed.

As a freelance composer he was best known for his works for wind ensemble. His melodic, tonal and complex music has an Americana feel, and has been performed in Australia, Canada, Europe, Japan and the USA. There are more than 150 pieces, including fifteen concertos, seven symphonies for concert wind band, a mass for soprano and baritone solos, choir and symphonic band,  chamber music and music for symphony orchestra. Many of his compositions for wind and percussion have become established band repertory.

His music has appeared on several record labels, but has mostly been recorded and produced by Albany Records.

David Maslanka died at his home in Montana on 6 August 2017 from colon cancer, aged seventy-three.

A selection of articles about David Maslanka

Classical music news. Le Poisson Magique - Resonus issues John McCabe's complete organ music on CD to mark the composer's eightieth birthday year

CD Spotlight. A Deep Understanding - John McCabe's 'lost' Australian recording, commended by Geoff Pearce. 'The music is unfamiliar, but interesting, full of surprises and variety, and the fine piano playing is insightful and committed.'