Alexandra Gardner

Praised as “highly lyrical and provocative of thought” (San Francisco Classical Voice), “mesmerizing” (The New York Times), and “pungently attractive” (The Washington Post), the music of composer Alexandra Gardner is thrilling audiences and performers alike with a clear, expressive sound and a flair for the imaginative and unexpected. She composes for varied instrumentations and often mixes acoustic instruments with electronics, blending lyricism, deep rhythmic exploration, textural development, and a love of sonic storytelling.

Current projects include a multi-movement work for saxophone quartet and electronics, supported by a 2018 Rubys Artist Grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation, and a composition for flute and fixed media commissioned by the National Flute Association. Recent commissions include Ciphers and Constellations for the String Orchestra of Brooklyn, Vixen for the Grand Valley State University New Music Ensemble, and Perseids for a consortium of wind ensembles led by Louisiana State University.

In addition to her work as a composer, Gardner is active as an arts advocate, educator, and digital media specialist. She has worked extensively in audio production for organizations such as National Public Radio, and from 2011-2014 was associate editor of NewMusicBox, a program of New Music USA. She enjoys helping people of all ages and abilities explore and create music through masterclasses and workshops, mentoring emerging composers, and facilitating dialog and discussion related to artistic career development and the nature of creativity.

Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Gardner holds degrees from The Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University (M.M.) and Vassar College (B.A.). She currently resides in Baltimore, Maryland.