Walter Hartley

Full biography Walter Hartley

Walter Hartley was an American composer known for his extensive contributions to classical music, particularly in the field of saxophone music. Born in 1927, Hartley studied music at the Eastman School of Music and later earned a Master's degree from the University of Rochester.

Throughout his career, Hartley composed for a wide range of instruments and ensembles, including wind bands, orchestras, and string quartets. However, he was perhaps best known for his work with the saxophone, which he began writing for in the 1950s. Hartley's saxophone pieces were greatly appreciated for their expressive melodies and technical demands, and he was considered one of the most prolific composers of music for this instrument.

Hartley's most notable work for saxophone was his Concerto for 23 Winds , which he wrote when he was barely 30 years old. The piece has become a staple of the saxophone repertoire and is still performed frequently today. In addition to his work as a composer, Hartley was also a respected music educator and taught at a number of universities throughout his career.

Hartley passed away in 2016, but his legacy in the classical music world lives on. His contributions to the saxophone repertoire helped legitimize the instrument as a credible solo instrument, and his extensive body of work for a wide range of ensembles and instruments continues to be appreciated by musicians and audiences alike.