Samuel Becker Samuel Becker is a young, London-based composer who is making a name writing highly effective music across all genres. His work has been described as both "dramatic" and, "highly visual," receiving an enthusiastic reception from audiences and performers alike. Born in 1973, Samuel grew up in Northamptonshire. It was here that he learnt the clarinet and saxophone and started performing in many groups. He also started composing and had several pieces performed. He then went on to read music at Goldsmiths College, University of London - studying composition with Diana Burrell, Tim Ewers and Edward Gregson. He wrote constantly, had many pieces performed and, in his second year at college, received his first commission. He also explored other areas of interest including aesthetics, music history, ethnomusicology and Russian music, studied clarinet with Ruth McDowell (BBC S.O.) and performed in a variety of groups. In addition, Samuel also developed his conducting and became much sought after as an interpreter of other composers' works. Since graduating in 1995, Samuel has been busy not only as a composer but also as a conductor, performer and teacher. Samuel's work covers a wide variety of genres from pieces for solo instruments, chamber and choral groups, to large-scale pieces for orchestra. Nearly all of these pieces have been created in response to specific commissions, with performers being quick to recognise Samuel's effective writing for instruments and voices and his interest in writing music that is both satisfying to play and rewarding to listen to. For further look at his work, please go to the works page where there is detailed information about specific pieces including instrumentation, performances, reviews and other information. Please click here to download a longer, more detailed biography (word document) Please click here to download a short biography suitable for programmes (word document) Please click here to download a head shot photo suitable for programmes