MakeMusic and Alfred Music are thrilled to announce that Brian Balmages, respected and world-renowned composer, conductor, educator, and clinician, has joined the team as Director of Digital Education and MakeMusic Publications.
MakeMusic Publications will be an imprint of Alfred Music and will embody Balmages’ strong commitment to publish outstanding composers and compelling band and orchestra music at all levels. Further, this new collaboration will allow Balmages to explore the connection between educational content and the MakeMusic digital platforms.
Brian Balmages comes to MakeMusic and Alfred Music with a wealth of experience. His music has been performed throughout the world with commissions ranging from elementary schools to professional orchestras. Notable premieres have included the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, “Pershing’s Own” United States Army Band and countless international, state, and local groups. Most recently, he composed a new work, “Kyiv, 2022,” written as a powerful sequel to “Moscow, 1941” in response to the recent invasion of Ukraine. Available now from Total Sheet Music for both Concert Band and Symphony Orchestra, all net proceeds of the initial release are going to relief organizations on the ground in Ukraine. The music community’s powerful response since its release 2 months ago has now surpassed a stunning $50,000 in aid and confirmed performances in over 41 states and 5 countries.
Chris Bernotas, Director of Instrumental School Methods and Repertoire says, “It is a pleasure to welcome Brian aboard! I am looking forward to seeing the innovative ways he propels MakeMusic and Alfred Music’s digital education strategy as well as continuing to provide wonderful content for the music education community. His experience will bring a unique perspective to the exciting evolution of music education in a digital world.”
Brian Balmages adds, “It is hard to describe how excited I am about the possibilities moving forward. Many people know how passionate I am about music education and how strongly I believe in the power of music to bring about significant change in the world. Combining that passion with the incredible resources available at Alfred and MakeMusic is a dream come true. There is no question that music education is evolving rapidly, and I look forward to creating new print and digital content that will impact the youngest students and the most seasoned professionals.”
