Augusta Read Thomas

An influential teacher and musical composer, Augusta Read Thomas is a University of Chicago University Professor of Composition, Grammy award winner and finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Music. She is only the 16th person to be designated University Professor at UChicago. Her music is regularly conducted and performed by orchestras and symphonies worldwide. Prof. Thomas’ work has been performed more than almost any other living composer. In 2016, she was named "Chicagoan of the Year" by Chicago magazine.

In addition, Prof. Thomas founded the University of Chicago’s Center for Contemporary Composition; a dynamic, collaborative, and interdisciplinary environment for the creation, performance and study of new music and for the advancement of the careers of emerging and established composers, performers, and scholars.

Thomas Stories

Mind of a Virtuoso Composer with Augusta Read Thomas (Ep. 3)

Prof. Augusta Read Thomas gives a glimpse into the creative process of a world-class composer, discusses the state of classical music today and how she helps train the next generation of composers.