Graeme Koehne is an esteemed Australian composer, known for his vibrant and accessible orchestral music that often contains a strong dance element. Born on August 3, 1956, in Adelaide, South Australia, Koehne developed an early interest in music. He pursued his passion through extensive formal education, studying at the University of Adelaide, where he was profoundly influenced by his teacher, the Australian composer Richard Meale. Koehne furthered his studies at the University of Cologne under the tutelage of the prominent German composer Karlheinz Stockhausen.

His career has seen a continuous stream of critical acclaim, as he is celebrated for blending a variety of influences ranging from romanticism to jazz, and film music to classical forms. Among his most recent contributions to the contemporary classical landscape are "Time Is a River," an introspective work for string quartet, and "Tivoli Dances," which embodies the vivacity and charm of dance traditions connected to the historical Tivoli Gardens. With compositions like "Inflight Entertainment," "Powerhouse," and his ballet score "1914," Koehne has cemented his reputation as a composer with an exceptional knack for creating music that resonates with both traditional concert-goers and new audiences, thanks to its melodic richness and rhythmic energy. His works have seen performances by major orchestras and ensembles, showcasing his significant role in the tapestry of Australian contemporary classical music.