James Cohn

Full biography James Cohn

James Cohn was an American composer born in Newark, New Jersey on February 12, 1928. He was a prolific composer who wrote solo, chamber, choral and orchestral works , including three string quartets, a piano concerto, a clarinet concerto, and several symphonies, among others. He was known for his use of lyricism in music, and his compositions were often described as melodic.

Cohn began his musical education at the age of 12, studying piano and theory, and later attended the Newark College of Engineering (now the New Jersey Institute of Technology) and Manhattan School of Music. He also studied with notable composers such as Ernst Toch and Aaron Copland, and received several awards and scholarships for his work, including a Guggenheim Fellowship.

Throughout his career, Cohn remained active in the music community, serving as a professor of music at Lehman College in New York City and the Mannes College of Music. He also worked as a conductor for various orchestras and ensembles, and was a respected teacher and mentor to many young musicians.

Cohn passed away on June 12, 2021, leaving behind a legacy of beautiful and inspiring music. His compositions continue to be performed and celebrated by musicians and music lovers around the world.