A&M-Commerce Prof Wins 11th Composing Award From ASCAP

COMMERCE, Texas – The awards keep coming for Dr. Ted Hansen, a professor and nationally known composer in the Texas A&M University-Commerce Department of Music.

Hansen has received his 11th consecutive ASCAPLUS Award for his work as a composer in the 2008-2009 academic year.

“It feels good to be recognized when you are working hard,” said Hansen, former music department head. “I compose as an expression of my philosophy. In a general sense, I hope that my music is perceived as an affirmation of the human spirit and as a profound and joyful celebration of life,” he said.

His award is based on published works and performances as determined by ASCAP media surveys, composition work, and quality of compositions in the opinion of the award panel.

Hansen’s work has been performed at Carnegie Hall in New York, The Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., and on National Education Television.

Some recent performances of his work include “Triforia” for flute, clarinet, and bassoon at the Puerto Rico Conservatory, and the world premiere of his “String Quartet #2” at A&M-Commerce. Other works recently performed include “Collaboration” for clarinet and piano and “Elegy” for saxophone and piano.

“Ted is a phenomenal composer,” current department head Christopher White said. “His compositions are both technically excellent and expressive. Ted writes for all instruments, allowing each to explore the full range, agility, and power of its capacity,” White said.

It came as no surprise his new compositions are selected for publication and performed frequently, he added.

“Dr. Ted Hansen is one of the best professors I have had in my college career,” said William Vaughan, a Euless senior music major. “His great sense of humor and musical experience make him a valued teacher and member of the music department,” Vaughan said.

Seesaw Music Corporation in New York, N.Y. has published 41 of Hansen’s compositions.

Depending upon the length of each work, Hansen usually finishes one or two new compositions each year.

Around campus, this professor is known as a jazz pianist. He presents an annual recital each year at A&M-Commerce to celebrate his passion for music.

At A&M-Commerce, Hansen teaches compositions and orchestration courses as well as a capstone course, “Architecture, Philosophy, and Music.” He lives in Greenville.