Charles Wuorinen (1938-2020) was one of the world’s leading composers. His many honors included a MacArthur Foundation Fellowship and the Pulitzer Prize. His more than 275 compositions encompass every form and medium, including works for orchestra, chamber ensemble, soloists, ballet, and stage.

Wuorinen has been described as a “maximalist,” writing music luxuriant with events, lyrical and expressive, strikingly dramatic. His works are characterized by powerful harmonies and elegant craftsmanship, offering at once a link to the music of the past and a vision of a rich musical future. Both as composer and performer (conductor and pianist) Wuorinen worked with some of the finest performers of his time and his works reflect the great virtuosity of his collaborators.