Howard J. Buss, Composer of Contemporary Classical Music

            Howard J. Buss (b. 1951) is recognized  internationally as composer of contemporary classical music. His compositions have received critical acclaim, have been performed in more than 50 countries, and are frequently featured at national and international music conventions and festivals. They have been performed by musicians from universities as well as current and former members of organizations such as The Boston Symphony Orchestra, Minnesota Orchestra, Buffalo Philharmonic, Israel Philharmonic, Berlin Philharmonic, Vancouver Symphony, Atlanta Symphony, New York Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, etc. A copy of his patriotic composition Fanfares is included in the Presidential Collection of Ronald Reagan. Buss’ more than 280 published works include instrumental solos, chamber music, symphonic, choral, and band works.

            The legendary clarinetist Leon Russianoff described Dr. Buss’ style as “imaginative, sincere, rewarding to both performers and audiences, and without the gimmickry which is so prevalent in contemporary music today.” Upon hearing his music critics have written: “By far the night’s most memorable piece” - The Los Angeles Times, “This is truly one of the finest works in our idiom” - Florida Percussive News, “The evening’s highlight” - The Maine Sunday Telegram, and "Buss’ music is a mix of intellect and fun. There is a complexity here that is most appealing." - Fanfare Magazine

            Buss has received numerous awards and his commissioned works include original compositions as well as arrangements. His compositions are frequently included and analyzed in doctoral dissertations, lectures, and professional music journals. His music has been recorded on the Albany, Bottega Discantica (Italy), Crystal, Capstone, De Ferrari (Italy), DUX (Poland), Equilibrium, 4-Tay, Granada Brass (Spain), HoneyRock, IBS Classical (Spain), PL Productions, Ravello, C. Alan Publications, Soundview, and Urania (Italy) labels.

            Howard J. Buss received his B.A. in Applied Music from West Chester University, M.M. in Performance and M.M. in Composition from Michigan State University, and D.M.A. in Composition from the University of Illinois. He is the founder and former editor of Brixton Publications (ASCAP) and Buss Publications (BMI) which publish contemporary American concert music.

Howard J. Buss
Phone (863) 646-0961
E-mail: buss.howard@yahoo.com

Commissioning New Works:

     Whether you want to commemorate a special occasion, honor an individual, draw special attention to your performing career, or simply make a significant contribution to the repertoire, there is nothing that will add more excitement to your concert than a premiering a work which you commissioned. Howard Buss has been commissioned by numerous musicians and patrons who recognize the importance of ensuring a permanent legacy demonstrating their dedication to the art of music. Occasions for which he has been commissioned include the opening ceremony of a performing arts school, the nation-wide 50th Anniversary of the American Music Center, the 30th Anniversary of the International Trombone Festival, memorials to honor the departed, weddings, birthdays, and many high-profile music festival and convention performances.
     Where do you start? The process is simple. Decide what type of work you want to commission, its instrumentation and approximate duration. Then, contact Howard Buss to discuss the details and fee schedule.

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