Mark Hayes's Email & Phone Number

📖 Summary

Mark Hayes is an American composer, arranger, and pianist who has achieved international acclaim for his innovative contributions to choral music. With a career spanning over three decades, Hayes has composed a wide array of works encompassing a variety of musical genres, including classical, jazz, gospel, and pop. His unique ability to blend traditional music elements with contemporary influences has earned him a loyal following of performers and audiences alike.

Born and raised in Missouri, Hayes began studying piano at a young age and quickly developed a passion for music. He went on to earn a degree in piano performance from Kansas State University and a master's degree in piano and vocal performance from the University of Kansas. Throughout his education, Hayes developed a deep appreciation for choral music and began to explore the possibilities of composing and arranging for vocal ensembles.

Hayes' early career saw him working as a church pianist and accompanist, where he honed his skills as a performer and gained valuable experience in the world of sacred music. It was during this time that he began writing choral music for the church, drawing on his diverse musical influences to create arrangements that resonated with both performers and audiences. His arrangements quickly gained popularity, and his reputation as a talented composer and arranger began to grow.

In the early 1990s, Hayes made a significant impact on the choral music world with his innovative approach to arranging traditional hymns and spirituals. His arrangements brought a fresh and dynamic energy to these timeless songs, incorporating elements of jazz, blues, and gospel to create a sound that was both contemporary and reverent. This unique fusion of musical styles appealed to a wide range of performers, from church choirs to professional vocal ensembles, and cemented Hayes' status as a leading figure in the world of choral music.

Hayes' versatility as a composer is evident in his extensive catalog of works, which includes compositions for solo piano, instrumental ensembles, and full orchestras. His ability to seamlessly blend classical and popular music elements has earned him a reputation as a trailblazer in the contemporary choral music scene. Whether composing an original piece or arranging a traditional melody, Hayes infuses his music with an infectious energy and a passion for storytelling that captivates audiences and performers alike.

One of Hayes' most notable accomplishments is his collaboration with the renowned vocal group, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. His arrangements have been featured in several of their recordings, and his compositions have been performed by the choir in concerts around the world. His work with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir has brought his music to a global audience and solidified his position as a leading figure in contemporary choral music.

In addition to his work as a composer and arranger, Hayes is also a sought-after clinician and conductor, leading workshops and masterclasses for choral groups of all ages and skill levels. His engaging teaching style and infectious enthusiasm for music inspire performers to explore new ways of interpreting and performing choral literature, making him a beloved figure in the choral music community.

Mark Hayes' impact on the world of choral music is undeniable, and his contributions continue to resonate with performers and audiences around the world. His ability to blend traditional and contemporary influences has broadened the scope of choral music, creating a vibrant and dynamic musical landscape that embodies the richness and diversity of the human experience. As a composer, arranger, and performer, Hayes' passion for music and storytelling is evident in every note, leaving a lasting impression on all who have the pleasure of experiencing his work.