New York-based composer Matt Marks died on May 11th. He was just 38.
Not just a composer but also a mean arranger, singer and horn player, Marks was a founding member of contemporary music chamber orchestra, Alarm Will Sound, which has been described as “one of the most vital and original ensembles on the American music scene.”
The announcement of the news by Marks’ fiancé, composer Mary Kouyoumdjian was greeted with many tributes, including from Alarm Will Sound, who stated on Twitter: ‘Matt was a unique mix of playfulness & gravity who was integral in shaping our identity as a band. He will be deeply missed.’
Steve Smith in a full obituary in the New York Times, summed up Marks’ style: ’he demonstrated a knack for crafting works of substantial appeal and subversive cheek, generously endowed with sharp wit and relatable pathos.’