Eric Pazdziora – Biography
Eric Paździora (b. 1981) is a composer whose music has been performed and published around the world. Reviewers have described his compositions as “fresh, exciting, and well-crafted” (Pastoral Music, 36:5) and “an instant classic” (Global Christian Worship, July 2015).
He holds a doctorate in composition from the University of Maryland, where he studied with of Mark Edwards Wilson. He was also a student of Mark Engebretson, Alejandro Rutty, and Edwin T. Childs. Additionally, he is a graduate of the European American Musical Alliance summer composition program in Paris, studying with pupils of Nadia Boulanger.
His D.M.A. dissertation, a one-act chamber opera entitled House of Winter, tells the story of a Scottish woman’s struggle with dementia. Other compositions similarly examine the balance between ancient traditions and contemporary concerns. The choral cycle Canticles for the Holy Innocents, composed in memory of child abuse victim Lydia Schatz, was premiered by Chorosynthesis Singers for their “Empowering Silenced Voices” concert series. Eric has also collaborated on several song cycles with award-winning author Jane Yolen.
In addition to his composing, Eric serves as organist and pianist at Epworth UMC in Gaithersburg, MD, and teaches at Chevy Chase School of Music.