With memorable melodies and colorful interplay, composer Oliver Caplan’s music expresses a deeply felt romanticism. His compositions capture the ephemeral: in his music, the geographies of people, places, and ideas intertwine to become tales of transformation. Balancing striking beauty and haunting fragility, Mr. Caplan’s portfolio includes works for a diverse range of instrumentations, from chamber ensembles to full orchestra and chorus.

Mr. Caplan’s 2012 debut album “Illuminations” is available on iTunes and Amazon.com. He has been commissioned by the Bronx Arts Ensemble, Columbia University Wind Ensemble, Washington & Jefferson College Wind Ensemble, Sinfonietta of Riverdale, Juventas New Music Ensemble, Firebrand Concert Series, and Lorelei Ensemble. His music has been presented in over 50 public performances, including the Nebraska Chamber Players, Trio Veritas, Boston New Music Initiative and 11:11 Theatre Company, among others. Chicago’s 5th House Ensemble awarded him the Grand Prize in its Young Composer Competition (2010). Other accolades include a Somerville Arts Council Fellowship Grant (2013), Fellowships at the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts (2013, 2011), selection as a Finalist for the American Prize in Composition (2012), and recognition by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers with five consecutive ASCAPLUS Awards for emerging artists (2008-2012).

Mr. Caplan (b. 1982) was raised in the Bronx, New York. He studied Music and Geography at Dartmouth College (B.A. 2004) and Composition at the Boston Conservatory (M.M. 2006). His composition teachers include Dalit Warshaw, Dana Brayton and Charles Dodge. Mr. Caplan currently resides in Somerville, Massachusetts. An avid hiker, he finds inspiration through time outdoors.

SELECTED COMMISSIONS:

• 2014: Lorelei Ensemble
• 2013: Firebrand Concert Series
• 2012: Sinfonietta of Riverdale
• 2011: Chinese Symphonic Masterpieces at Harvard
• 2010: Chagall Performance Art Collaborative
• 2009: Washington & Jefferson College Wind Ensemble
• 2008: Juventas New Music Ensemble
• 2007: Columbia University Wind Ensemble
• 2006: Bronx Arts Ensemble
• 2005: 11:11 Theater Company