Andy Akiho is a contemporary American composer and percussionist known for his inventive and often interdisciplinary approach to music. Born on December 7, 1979, in South Carolina, Akiho's music exhibits a rich blend of various musical traditions, pulled together with a distinctive use of rhythm and timbre. His compositions frequently incorporate steel pan, which he plays himself, alongside classical instrumentation, creating works that resist easy classification and explore the boundaries between genres. Akiho's contribution to contemporary music has been recognized with a range of awards and fellowships, including the Rome Prize and an Avery Fisher Career Grant.

Akiho's discography showcases his unique voice in the realm of new music, with works such as "Sculptures" and "LIgNEouS III" offering complex, textured soundscapes that challenge and engage both performers and audiences. His piece "No One to Know One" exemplifies his style: a combination of intricate melodies and rhythms that draws on his extensive knowledge of various performance techniques. Andy Akiho's ability to integrate elements of jazz, traditional music from different cultures, and avant-garde classical music has cemented his status as a dynamic and progressive figure in the music world. With his more recent works such as "Seven Pillars" and "21 (Version for Cello and Marimba)," Akiho continues to push musical boundaries, ensuring his reputation as an innovative composer of the 21st century.

Genres

American 21st Century Classical

Prepared Piano

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Latest Release

BeLonging

Andy Akiho•

Imani Winds

Album - 7 Tracks - Released June 14, 2024