About
Pulitzer Prize and Emmy Award winner known for his work with ensembles like the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and The Metropolitan Opera. His original compositions included "Crossworlds" from 2002, "Side by Side" from 2007, and "Pan Trio" from 2008.
Before Fame
He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1954 with a degree in percussion performance and composition. He broke through in Chicago, establishing himself as a jazz musician from 1944 to 1949.
Trivia
He won an Emmy Award in 1982 for "Soundings: The Music of Michael Colgrass," a PBS documentary. His 1978 Pulitzer Prize for Music was for "Déjà vu," a symphonic piece.
Family Life
His son Neal became an editor, journalist, and screenwriter.
Associated With
He organized the percussion sections for recordings and premieres of works by John Cage, Elliott Carter, Edgard Varèse, and Harry Partch in the early years of his career.
