
Chris Evan Hass (b. 1993) is a self-described ‘composer, arranger, conductor, and friend’ hailing from Ann Arbor, MI. Praised as “beautifully expressive” (the WholeNote) and “thrillingly off-kilter” (Double Reed Journal), Chris’ music aims to delight and inspire, often taking direct influence from his favorite artists and genres.
Marked by rhythmic complexity and luscious harmonies, Chris’ music has been performed worldwide by some of today’s finest musicians. This includes members of the New York Philharmonic, U.S. Naval Academy Band, Sinta Quartet, Dallas Winds, Nashville Symphony Orchestra, U.S. Army Band, Eastman Saxophone Project, and U.S. Air Force Band. His compositions have been performed at prestigious conferences including the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, Texas Music Educator’s Association Conference, and the Indonesia Orchestra and Ensemble Festival. As a prominent voice in the saxophone and brass community, Chris’ chamber works are frequently featured at the Fischoff Chamber Music Competition and have become staples at instrumental showcases like the International Trombone Festival, World Saxophone Congress, and the International Trumpet Guild.
As an educator, Chris has traveled internationally to rehearse and conduct ensembles ranging from 6th grade beginning bands to collegiate and professional ensembles. Chris teaches private composition and low brass lessons, music theory courses, and has given presentations on composition, networking, and freelancing at universities across the United States.
Chris holds degrees in Composition from Central Michigan University (M.M.) and Western Michigan University (B.M.) where he studied with David Gillingham, Evan Ware, and Christopher Biggs. Chris currently resides in Jackson, MI with his wife, son, and three dogs (Pesto, Basil, and Olive).
I was recently commissioned by Anne McNamara to write her a trumpet sonata, so I thought I would listen to some recent pieces online — and I came across your splendid sonata on YouTube — what a wonderful discovery! I am a fellow composer (I have written a one-movement concerto for Chris Gekker, I am friends with Eric Ewazen) and I simply love your writing. You have found a new admirer of your work!
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Sorry for just now seeing this, but that’s incredible! I really appreciate you checking out this piece and am glad to hear you enjoyed what you heard! Stay in touch – I’d love to see what you write for Anne!
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Hi!! I am a Freshman in Highschool and I was wondering, do you use an app to compose and if so what is it called? I would definitely like to compose a few things and I already have written an AATB Quartet for Aladdin. My email is noahriebold1@gmail.com if you wanna get in contact
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Hi Noah! Thanks for reaching out. I use notation software on my computer called Sibelius. This, Finale, and Dorico are pretty industry standard programs for writing music (though they can be pricy). If you’re just starting out I’d recommend checking out free software options like Musescore or Noteflight.
Happy composing!
Chris
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