Bio
Composer Dr. Doug Pierce has been described as "Special" (Slide Hampton). As a recent graduate of The University of Nebraska Lincoln his doctoral research and compositional focus was the blending of contemporary musical styles with liturgical Orthodox Christian music.
Dr. Pierce has received some very prestigious fellowships, grants and has been selected to participate in some of the world's finest residencies including The Felix E. Grant Jazz Fellowship, The Betty Carter Jazz Ahead Residency, The BMI Jazz Composers' Workshop, The Edgier Fellowship The Maryland Arts Council Grant for Composition. In his recent composition "Suite for the Panagia" Dr. Pierce makes sensible and intelligent use of liturgical chant with contemporary Gospel, Jazz and Chamber music stylings. The result being a uniquely beautiful and balanced blend of said musical styles.
Born in Detroit Michigan Dr. Pierce grew up in Lexington, Georgia before moving back to Detroit during his later teen years. Upon graduating from high school he attended Michigan State University, The University of the District of Columbia, later receiving his Masters Degree from Western Michigan University. Recently receiving his doctorate in composition from the University of Nebraska Lincoln Dr. Pierce continues to tour and educate music students as a clinician, guest composer/ conductor and performer.
