Life and Musical Journey of a Professional Composer
Michael Staff (b. 1983) is a composer and pianist based in California's Inland Empire. Called "Brilliant and intellectual, yet sensitive" (Nancy Bricard, Professor Emeritus at USC Thronton School of Music), his music combines elements of art, literature, poetry, and philosophy in an effort to express the many facets of the human experience.
Michael was first commissioned by artist Mary Ince to write a chamber work in collaboration with a corresponding painting. Both were premiered in 2022 at the Pepper Art Gallery in Redlands, CA. He is the recipient of the Prosser Scholarship Award from the University of Redlands, as well as 2 Global Music Awards in both instrumental and composition categories. Michael was also nominated for a collaboration with TedEd on the connection between mathematics and music.
Michael received his B.M. in keyboard performance and composition from the University of Redlands, and is in his second year of graduate studies, majoring in composition. He studies piano with Professor Louanne Long and composition with Dr. Anthony Suter and Dr. Andre Myers.
Recent News and Projects
New Recording
Michael has recently recorded several pieces that will feature on his upcoming album. This highly anticipated album will be available in both vinyl and digital formats, offering listeners a rich auditory experience of his latest works.
Transient Reality
Commissioned by artist Mary Ince, Michael composed Transient Reality, a piece for string quartet. This work was the final piece in Ince’s series where musical compositions are transformed into visual art on canvas. The unveiling of both the painting and the performance occurred at the University of Redlands Art Gallery.
Watch the performance here:
https://youtu.be/NliPUNHJeeg
World Premiere
Michael's 3-movement orchestral composition, Echoes from a Fractured Dimension, had its world premiere with the University of Redlands Orchestra, conducted by Dr. Co Nguyen.
Check it out here:
https://youtu.be/6HKko5PAmJY
Compositions and Performances
Discover the depth and breadth of Michael Staff's compositions and performances. Witness his unique ability to translate complex themes into beautiful music.
