Alfred Reed (January 25, 1921 – September 17, 2005) was a prolific American composer and conductor with a particular passion for wind and concert band music. Renowned for his contributions to band literature, Reed's works often reflected his exquisite craftsmanship and a profound understanding of instrumental capabilities. His compositions, characterized by their melodic richness and harmonic diversity, resonated with musicians and audiences alike, cementing his reputation as one of the leading figures in wind band music throughout the 20th century.

Starting his music career in the U.S. Air Force Band during World War II, Reed honed his skills in arranging and composing before earning his Bachelor's and Master's degrees from the Juilliard School of Music. Some of his most celebrated works include "A Festive Overture," "Armenian Dances," and "El Camino Real" — a piece inspired by Spanish folk themes. For many years, Reed served as professor of music at the University of Miami, where he influenced countless students with his pedagogical insights and dedication to artistry in band music. Even posthumously, his music lives on through recordings and performances, as titles such as "A Tribute to Alfred Reed" and "Keystone Wind Ensemble: Alfred Reed" testify to his enduring legacy.

Genres

Concert Band

Latest Release

El Camino Real

Alfred Reed

Single - Released November 4, 2023