John Harris Harbison (born December 20, 1938 in Orange, New Jersey) is a composer, best known for his operas and large choral works. He is an Institute Professor of music at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He is a former student of Roger Sessions.
When asked for his "artistic Credo" Harbison (1990) replied: "to make each piece different from the others, to find clear, fresh large designs, to reinvent traditions."
He is married to violinist Rose Mary Pederson.
Discography
- The Flights into Egypt and other works by John Harbison (1990). New World Records 80395-2. Performed by The Cantata Singers and Ensemble, The Los Angeles Philharmonic New Music Group, and The Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra. Conducted by David Hoose, John Harbison, and Andre Previn. Tracks:
- The Flight Into Egypt, text from Matthew 2: 13-23, King James Version
- The Natural World: Prelude
- Where We Must Look for Help, text from Robert Bly
- On the Road Home, text from Wallace Stevens
- Milkweed, text from James Wright
- Concerto for Double Brass Choir and Orchestra: I. Invention on a Motif: Tempo giusto
- II. Invention on a Chord: Cantabile
- III. Invention on a Cadence: Molto allegro