Michael Cooke: San Francisco Composers Chamber Orchestra

Crushing Classical

Michael Cooke is an accomplished multi-instrumentalist and composer, seamlessly blending the worlds of jazz and classical music. A two Emmy Awards and the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award, Cooke’s versatility shines through in his mastery of soprano, alto, and tenor saxophones, flute, soprano and bass clarinets, bassoon, and percussion. A cum laude graduate in composition from the University of North Texas, his academic pursuits encompassed jazz, ethnomusicology, music history, theory, and composition.

Beginning his professional orchestral career in 1991, Michael performed with numerous symphonies across North Texas. His talent has taken him to stages in Europe, Mexico, and all over the United States. Since 1994, Cimarron Music Press has been publishing many of his compositions, reflecting his diverse musical influences and skills.

After moving to the San Francisco Bay Area, Michael continued to forge new paths in both improvised and composed music. His work is a reflection of a rich multicultural experience, blending various styles and techniques. In 1999, he founded Black Hat Records, a jazz label that further showcases his commitment to musical exploration. Currently serving on the Board of Directors of the San Francisco Composers Chamber Orchestra, Cooke continues to influence the music scene with his innovative contributions.

Described by the San Francisco Beacon as an artist who flows “out color and tone with a feeling I haven’t heard in quite a while,” Michael’s unique sound sets him apart in the music world. The All Music Guide praises his work as “uncompromising, fiery, complex, passionate, and cathartic,” particularly noting his performances on Searching by Cooke Quartet, Statements by Michael Cooke, and The Is by CKW Trio.

His latest release, An Indefinite Suspension of The Possible, showcases an unusual yet compelling mix of woodwinds, trombone, cello, koto, and percussion. This album captures the essence of his innovative spirit, creating a synergy in improvised music that taps into previously unexplored realms. Michael Cooke stands out as a significant figure in contemporary music, constantly pushing the boundaries of jazz and classical genres through his inventive compositions and exhilarating performances.

Follow Michael Cooke at his website, Threads, Facebook, check out his new YouTube channel, or read about the San Francisco Composers Chamber Orchestra.

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