Katherine Bergman Makes a Splash at ISCM WMD in Talllin, Estonia

Frank Brickle reported on another standout work offered in Tallin, Estonia, where ISCM World Music Days is unfolding:

Katherine Bergman’s work for wind band was an, “unusual take on an ensemble that’s easy to use in a hackneyed way. Shows influence of current American post-minimal techniques without being obviously imitative.”

“I am as pleased as can be about being blindsided by the pieces by the two young composers” [Yulan Qiu and Katherine Bergman.]

It is worth explaining that the selection process for ISCM submissions often results in the safest selections–the most safely modernist or the most safely post-minimalist, the most safely entrenched.

Katherine Bergman (b. 1985) is a Minnesota-based composer who draws on literature, environmentalism, and found materials to create music that has been described as hypnotic and visceral. She has received commissions and performances from leading ensembles throughout the United States, including the U.S. Coast Guard Band, Encore Wind Ensemble, Gustavus Wind Orchestra, Zeitgeist, Seen/Heard Trio, the Minnesota Percussion Trio, The Dream Songs Project, and many others. Her works have been presented at the North American Saxophone Alliance Biennial Conference, the College Band Directors National Association Conference, and The Upper Midwest Chamber Winds Symposium, and her compositions have received support from the Minnesota State Arts Board, the Jerome Foundation, and the Metro Regional Arts Council.

Katherine holds a master’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa School of Music, where she studied composition with Jonathan Schwabe and Alan Schmitz. She earned a bachelor’s degree in music from Gustavus Adolphus College in Saint Peter, Minnesota with composition instructors including Michele Gillman and Steve Wright. She has studied extensively with Mary Ellen Childs, and has received individual instruction from Samuel Adler. Recent and upcoming projects include new works for Hub New Music, Nautilus Music-Theater, and a new work for wind ensemble commissioned by a consortium of university and high school bands.

Katherine is Co-Founder and Artistic Co-Director of Spitting Image, a composer collective that brings together composers, listeners, and performers to strengthen the Twin Cities contemporary music community.

—William Anderson