Anthony Cheung Composer Portrait | Miller Theatre

by Ahmed Ibrahim World Editor

Anthony Cheung’s Sonic Explorations Take Center Stage in 2025-2026 Season

A Composer Portrait Concert at Miller Theatre at Columbia University will showcase the innovative work of composer and pianist Anthony Cheung, alongside performances by leading ensembles and musicians. Cheung’s 2025-2026 season promises a series of milestone performances and premieres with prestigious organizations across the country, solidifying his position as a vital voice in contemporary music.

A Composer Focused on Sensory Experience

Anthony Cheung crafts music that delves into the realm of the senses, employing a diverse range of instrumental techniques and emotional expression. His compositions are characterized by a fascination with the ambiguity of sound and the subtle shifts in tuning and timbre, creating a uniquely immersive experience for the listener. One critic lauded Cheung’s work for its “instrumental sensuality,” while another noted that his music’s precision “is responsible for a wealth of sonic magic.”

Upcoming Performances and Collaborations

The Composer Portrait Concert at Miller Theatre will feature a dynamic program showcasing Cheung’s versatility. The performance schedule includes Cheung’s own Improvised Intro on keyboards, alongside works performed by the JACK Quartet (Twice Removed), Yarn/Wire (Tactile Values), and a collaboration between flutist Claire Chase and the JACK Quartet (The Real Book of Fake Tunes).

Beyond Miller Theatre, Cheung’s 2025-2026 season includes engagements with several prominent musical institutions. These include performances at Lincoln Center, with the New York Philharmonic conducted by Gustavo Dudamel, the Los Angeles Philharmonic under the baton of Elim Chan, and Cal Performances in Berkeley. He will also be featured by the American Modern Opera Company and the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival.

A History of Recognition and Innovation

Cheung’s artistic achievements have been recognized with numerous accolades, including a Guggenheim Fellowship, the Rome Prize, and First Prize at the Dutilleux Competition. From 2015 to 2017, he served as the Daniel R. Lewis Composer Fellow with the Cleveland Orchestra. He is also a co-founder, pianist, and former artistic director of New York’s Talea Ensemble, demonstrating a commitment to both composing and fostering collaborative musical environments.

Cheung’s upcoming season, filled with performances by esteemed musicians like pianist Gloria Cheng, tenor Paul Appleby, and violinist Miranda Cuckson, underscores his growing influence and the enduring appeal of his innovative musical vision.

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