Anna Clyne Essentials

Melting harmonies, pulsing rhythms, and electro-acoustic experimentation find equal representation in Anna Clyne's compositions. Whether the angular cello concerto DANCE, the meditative Within Her Arms for string orchestra, or the itchy Choke for baritone saxophone/bass clarinet and tape, Clyne's style is rooted in melody and layered textures. Born in London in 1980, Clyne attended the University of Edinburgh and the Manhattan School of Music, where she studied with Julia Wolfe. After residencies with ensembles including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Clyne was commissioned to compose for the 2013 BBC Last Night of the Proms; the chaotic and colorful “Masquerade” was premiered by the BBC Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Marin Alsop—the first time a composition by a woman was conducted by a female conductor at the close of the high-profile concert series. The work features on the 2020 album Mythologies alongside similarly explosive pieces such as “Night Ferry” and “The Seamstress.”