Andrew Norman '09AD becomes composer in residence at Opera Philadelphia

Andrew Norman '09AD has been selected to join Opera Philadelphia’s renowned Composer in Residence program. The program, in collaboration with Gotham Chamber Opera and Music-Theatre Group in New York, is adding a third young composer to its ranks.

Norman, a composer of chamber and orchestral music, was chosen from over 100 applicants for the position, which offers the opportunity to follow a personalized development track focused on advancing his career as an operatic composer.

Funded by a $1.73 million grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the program fosters tomorrow’s American operatic masterpieces through personalized creative development and intensive, hands-on composition opportunities for today’s most promising opera composers.  The Composer in Residence position combines its individualized plan of study with a living stipend and health benefits.

Opera Philadelphia quoted David B. Devan, the company's General Director and President, as saying: “Andrew’s music really stood out both in its emotional sophistication and his virtuosic control of larger forms. Both of these qualities are essential for composing opera. We look forward to working with Andrew as he takes this next step in his growth as an artist.”

Norman said, “I am very excited and honored to be the next Composer in Residence with these three innovative companies. I love opera, both new and old, but I have much to learn about the nuts and bolts of how it gets made. This residency, with its opportunities for experimentation and immersion, comes at the perfect time for me as I dive into my first large-scale opera project.”

Norman, 33, is increasingly active as an orchestral composer. In May 2013, the Philadelphia Orchestra performed his kinetic work Unstuck, which refers to a moment when he overcame writers block and began composing at a furious pace. Norman’s The Companion Guide to Rome, which premiered in 2011 in Salt Lake City, Utah, was a finalist for the 2012 Pulitzer Prize in music. Norman also serves as Composer in Residence for the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra.