Andy Akiho

Andy Akiho is an eclectic composer and performer of contemporary classical music. Recent engagements include premieres by the New York Philharmonic, National Symphony Orchestra, Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, and Carnegie Hall. Andy’s awards include 2014-15 Luciano Berio Rome Prize, Chamber Music America Grants in 2012 and 2014, and the 2011 National Composition Competition Grand Prize. He has attended the Aspen Music Festival, Heidelberg Music Festival, Bang on a Can Festival, and Avaloch Farm Music Institute, where he is the Composer-in-Residence. His compositions have been played during American Composers Orchestra’s Underwood Readings.

Akiho was born in Columbia, South Carolina, and is based in New York City. He graduated with a BM from University of South Carolina, the Manhattan School of Music with an MM, and the Yale School of Music with another MM. Akiho is currently pursuing a PhD at Princeton University. Andy recently debuted CD ‘No One To Know One’, on Innova Recordings.

Tarnished Mirrors

I enjoy observing obscured reflections in antique mirrors. The layer of tarnish that stands between reality and the veiled reflection is where the story begins.

I am very grateful for everyone at American Composers Orchestra, the SONiC Festival, and Paul Underwood for giving me the opportunity to write my first standard, non-concerto orchestral wor