Bio
Daniel J. McIntosh, a composer of music in several genres, is best known for his technique of variant levels of synchronization. His music frequently combines post-minimalist and aleatoric techniques utilizing a modal harmonic language to achieve a sound that is free and powerful in its affect.
Growing up in Illinois and Tennessee, Daniel went on to study composition with Dr. Jonathan Brooks at Anderson University, and obtained his Master of Music in Composition degree at Butler University under the tutelage of Dr. Frank Felice, Dr. James Aikman, and Dr. Michael Schelle. He then completed his DMA in Composition from the University of Kansas while studying with James Barnes, Dr. Kip Haaheim, and Dr. Forrest Pierce.
Daniel has been commissioned by several prominent ensembles and performers across the nation including Washburn University Wind Ensemble, Anderson University Wind Ensemble, Arkansas State University Bands, Mid America Nazarene University Concert Band, University of Kansas Bands, University of New Mexico Symphonic Band, Ensemble Subsonique, the In Motus Quartet, and the Violetta Duo. His works have received several awards including the Anthony Cius Award for his choral/orchestral work Star Death, a first place prize in the Anderson University Concerto-Aria Competition for his orchestral work The Spirit of Human Endeavor, and a second place prize in the KU Iron Composer competition. Daniel has been selected as a finalist for the 2015 I International Competition of Choral Composition "Kromátika” and the Midwest Chamber Ensemble’s two year Composer in Residence position, and his works have been selected to be performed by groups such as SCI, NACUSA, PARMA, the Cicada Consort, KC VITAs, the Mid-America Freedom Band, Helianthus, the Jordan College of the Arts Composer’s Orchestra, and the Rural America New Music Festival. He has also received performances from outstanding soloists such as Kivie Cahn-Lipman, Marci Wagnon, John and Diana Huntoon, Gerry Pagano, and others.
In addition to composing, Daniel has taught courses in music theory and composition at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Missouri Western State University, MidAmerica Nazarene University, and the University of Kansas. Daniel has also taught private composition, voice, and piano lessons, and occasionally sings or plays in new music collaborations.