Composer
Contemporary Music Performance Specialist (Pianist)
Music Theorist
Arranger
3271-7 E Covenanter Dr
Bloomington, IN 47401
baciach@umail.iu.edu
• Education
2007-2011 Indiana University, the Jacobs School of Music, Bloomington, Indiana, Doctor of Music in Composition, Minor Fields: Music Theory, Computer Music, GPA 3.97
2006-2007 The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, PhD in Music Composition, one year of coursework, transferred to Indiana University
2002-2004 Temple University, The Boyer College of Music, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Master’s Degree in Piano Performance, Master’s Degree in Music Composition (concurrent), GPA 3.98
1998-2002 Temple University, The Boyer College of Music, Bachelor’s Degree in Piano Performance, summa cum laude, GPA 3.86
1995-1998 Delaware County Community College, Media, Pennsylvania, Associates Degree in Liberal Arts, high honors, GPA 3.51
1991-1995 Marple Newtown Senior High School, Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, Diploma
• Private Study
Composition
Indiana University: Sven-David Sandström, John Gibson, Jeffrey Hass, Don Freund, Claude Baker, P.Q. Phan
Freie Universität Berlin: Samuel Adler
University of Pennsylvania: Jay Reise
Private instruction: Richard Wernick
Temple University: Matthew Greenbaum, Maurice Wright, Richard Brodhead
Piano
Indiana University: Luba Edlina-Dubinsky
Temple University: Charles Abramovic, Ignat Solzhenitsyn, Lambert Orkis, Harvey Wedeen
The Wilmington Music School: Benjamin Whitten
Darlington Arts Center: Harue Sato
Conducting
Indiana University: Ben Bolter
Freie Universität Berlin: Emily Freeman Brown
Temple University: Larry Wagner, Arthur Chodoroff
• Master Classes
Composition
Osvaldo Golijov (String Quartet, the University of Pennsylvania)
Cindy Cox (Piano Sonata No. 2, IU)
Michael Quell (Piano Trio in B, soundSCAPE festival)
Kotoka Suzuki (Mölna Elegy for soprano and four percussionists, IU)
Piano
Charles Rosen (Beethoven, Piano Sonata in c minor, Op. 111, Temple University)
Gilbert Kalish (Olivier Messiaen, Vingt regards sur l’enfant-Jésus, XIII. Nöel)
Alexander Fiorillo (Haydn, F minor Variations, TU)
Menahem Pressler (Bach, Partita No. 5 in G major, TU)
Ruth Laredo (Prokofiev, Sonata No. 7 in Bb Major, Op. 83, Wilmington Music School)
• Music Festivals
2012 The Mizzou New Music Summer Festival, Performance of The Einstein Slide (2012, appendix to Collective Uncommon) commission for Alarm Will Sound, workshops and seminars with Steven Stuckey and Donnacha Dennehy
2011 The American Liszt Society Bicentennial Festival, “Liszt and the Future”, performance of Piano Sonata No. 2 as the winner of the festival’s composition competition, Matthew Gianforte, piano, Ramsey Hall, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA
2009 Freie Universität Berlin internationale Sommer (FUBiS, International Summer University of Freie Universität Berlin), Berlin, Germany: composition studies with Samuel Adler, woodwind quartet performance of Eastside Madrigals at the New Synagoge of Berlin
2009 SEAMUS (Society for Electro-Acoustic Music in the United States) National Convention, Fort Wayne, Indiana: performance of Waterclocks (stereo audio)
2009 Ball State Festival 39: New Music 2009, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana: performance of se vuoi (stereo audio)
2009 Midwest Composers Symposium, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan: performance of Chaconne for cello and electronic music
2008 Freie Universität Berlin internationale Sommer (FUBiS, International Summer University of Freie Universität Berlin), Berlin, Germany: composition studies with Samuel Adler, conducting studies with Emily Freeman Brown, German language studies with Bettina Pohle, string trio performance of 3-minute Trio at the New Synagoge of Berlin
2008 soundSCAPE International Contemporary Music Festival, Pavia, Italy: composition studies with Michael Quell, studies in instrumentation and improvisation, masterclasses, performance of Ekelof Fractures (Mölna Elegy) at the Maria Guilieri Church, Pavia, Italy
• Teaching Experience
2007-2010 Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, Associate Instructor in Music Theory, Musical Skills (Aural Skills) I, II, III, Sight-Singing Review and Aural Theory Review (dictation) for Graduate Students, Theory of Music V (20th Century techniques)
2004-2006 West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Adjunct Instructor, Theory of Music I, II, developed my own curriculum for Theory IV (20th Century), Aural Activities I, II, III, developed my own curriculum for Aurals IV (20th Century), Composition V (Private lessons), Graduate Seminar in the Pedagogy of Theory (Samuel Barber Summer Institute, WCU)
2004-2006 Settlement Music School (Germantown and West Philadelphia branches), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Instructor of Theory Class and Private Piano Lessons (children and adults)
2004-2006 Darlington Arts Center, Media, Pennsylvania, Instructor of Theory Class and Private Piano Lessons (children and adults)
2005 Delaware County Community College, Media, Pennsylvania, Instructor of Piano Class (children and adults, piano lab)
2002-2004 Temple University, Graduate Assistantship, undergraduate secondary piano lessons
2000-2002 Manayunk Community Center for the Arts, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, beginner piano lessons
1997 The Episcopal Academy of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Music Apprenticeship, Summer Music Theory Workshop, Michael Margerite, Instructor
· Guest Lecturer
2011 “Composing for the Piano: Traditional and Extended Techniques”, Undergraduate Instrumentation Course, Elliot Bark, Instructor, Indiana University, the Jacobs School of Music, Bloomington, Indiana
2010 “Brian Ciach: From Pianist to Composer”, Mock job interview and presentation of original works, Composition Seminar K1500, Indiana University, the Jacobs School of Music
2010 “Composing for the Piano”, Undergraduate Instrumentation Course, Natalie Williams, Instructor, Indiana University, the Jacobs School of Music, Bloomington, Indiana
2005 “The Pianist’s Composer: Effective Methods and Tips for Writing for the Piano”, Graduate Instrumentation Course, Larry Nelson, Professor, West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania
2003 “The Music of Brian Ciach: a presentation of three settings cummings for baritone and piano”, Undergraduate Music Appreciation Course, Jill Meehan, Instructor, Temple University, the Boyer College of Music, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Professional Experience
2002-2004 Contemporary Music Performance Specialist (pianist), Graduate Assistantship, Temple University, Boyer College of Music (premiering various piano solo and chamber works by Temple University graduate composers—a unique assistantship position created for me by Maurice Wright, TU composition department)
2003 Professional recording: Contemporary Music from Panama (Fermata Publications, CD 837101277112), The works of Emiliano Pardo-Tristán, composer, Brian Ciach, piano (tracks 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11), recorded in Rock Recital Hall, Temple University
1999 Rehearsal Accompanist, Master’s degree recital in choral conducting, Scott Finch, director, performing organ and piano
1998 Rehearsal Accompanist, University Chorale ensemble, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Janet Yamron, director
1997 Rehearsal Accompanist, vocal studio, Wilmington Arts Center, Wilmington, Delaware
• Performances of Original Works
2012 The Einstein Slide(appendix to Collective Uncommon, 2011), commissioned work for Alarm Will Sound, The Mizzou New Music Summer Festival
2012 Blank Slate for percussion quartet (entirely "found" instruments), commissioned work for Round Peg Square Hole, Auer Hall, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN
2012 Collective Uncommon: Seven Orchestral Studies on Medical Oddities, The Minnesota Orchestra, Osmo Vänskä, conductor, The Minnesota Orchestra Composer Institute, Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis, MN
2011 Collective Uncommon: Seven Orchestral Studies on Medical Oddities, written for the Philadelphia Mütter Museum: Of the College of Physicians (to be featured on their audio tour), winner of the 2011 Indiana University Dean’s Prize in orchestral composition, David Effron, conductor, IU orchestra, Musical Arts Center, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN
2011 Road Trip for soprano and chamber orchestra, commissioned by Indiana University as the winner of the Georgina Joshi Commission Prize, Dean’s Prize in Music Composition, The Indiana University New Music Ensemble, Sharon Harms, soprano, David Dzubay, director, Auer Hall, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN
2011 Piano Sonata No. 2, The American Liszt Society Bicentennial Festival, “Liszt and the Future”, performance as the winner of the festival’s composition competition, Matthew Gianforte, piano, Ramsey Hall, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA
2010 Two Berlin Preludes for piano solo, Andrea Clearfield’s Music Salon, Philadelphia, PA, Jean-Francois Proulx, piano
2010 Mountain Song for piano and tuba, Octubafest, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, Ford Recital Hall, Paul Carlson, tuba, Brian Ciach, piano
2010 Violin Concerto for violin and orchestra (piano reduction version), movement I, The Philmore Ensemble (concert honoring Philadelphia composers), Myanna Harvey, violin solo, Tim Ribchester, piano, The Philadelphia Ethical Society, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
2010 Doctoral Chamber Recital (Doctor of Music Composition Degree Recital), Indiana University, Two Berlin Preludes for piano solo, Brian Ciach, piano, Mölna Elegy for soprano and four percussionists, Sharon Harms, soprano, Max Tholenaar-Maples, Sam Lents, Nate Lee, Brian Mueller, percussion, Brian Ciach, conductor, Ich bin, stereo audio, Mountain Song for tuba and piano, Paul Carlson, tuba, Brian Ciach, piano, Water Clocks, stereo audio, Whitman Carol for SATB a cappella choir, Vivian Ip, conductor, Auer Concert Hall, Bloomington, Indiana
2009 Two Berlin Preludes for piano, Student Composition Recital, Auer Hall, Indiana University, Brian Ciach, piano
2009Strange Assortments for percussion ensemble, Indiana University Percussion Ensemble, Auer Hall, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
2009Eastside Madrigals for woodwind quartet, “Windsongs—Music for Woodwinds”, Freie Universität Berlin (FUBiS), Neue Synagoge, Berlin, Germany
2009Complex Variables (Free) for solo marimba and dancers, the Hammer and Nail Concert Series (a composer/choreographer collaboration project sponsored by the IU Student Composers Association), Buskirk Chumley Theater, Bloomington, Indiana, Abby Lansdown, dance choreographer
2009 Mölna Elegy for soprano and four percussionists, SUNY Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, Amanda DeBoer, soprano, the University of Buffalo Percussion Ensemble
2009 se vuoi, stereo audio, the 39th New Music Festival, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana
2009Water Clocks, stereo audio, SEAMUS National Convention, Fort Wayne, Indiana
2009Chaconne for cello and stereo audio, Midwest Composers Symposium, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
2008Ekelöf Fracturesfor soprano and three percussionists, soundSCAPE International Contemporary Music Festival, Pavia, Italy
20083-Minute Trio for string trio, “From Us To You—New Chamber Music From America,” Freie Universität Berlin (FUBiS), Neue Synagoge, Berlin, Germany
2008Trio in B for violin, cello and piano, Student Composition Recital, Auer Hall, Indiana University, Véronique Mathieu, violin, Lee-Lyung Park, cello, Brian Ciach, piano
2007 Two Piano Sonatas, “New Music by Brian Ciach and Jeremy Jennings”, The First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia, Brian Ciach, piano
2007 Piano Sonata No. 2, world premiere, “Penn Composers Guild”, Rose Recital Hall, University of Pennsylvania, Brian Ciach, piano
2006String Quartet and Piano Sonata, “String Quartets, Fanfares, and Sonatas: Works by Brian Ciach and Paul DiFrancesco”, The Philadelphia Ethical Society, Brian Ciach, piano, student string quartet from the Curtis Institute of Music: Joel Link, vln I, Dana Anderson, vln II, Alex Link, vla, Hiro Matsuo, cello
2006String Quartet, world premiere, “Penn Composer’s Guild”, Rose Recital Hall, University of Pennsylvania, student string quartet from the Curtis Institute of Music: Joel Link, vln I, Dana Anderson, vln II, Alex Link, vla, Hiro Matsuo, cello
2005Berg Variations, world premiere, and works by West Chester University faculty, “Piano Music by the Composition Faculty at W.C.U.”, Brian Ciach, piano, Swope Recital Hall, West Chester University
2004 Piano Concerto (arrangement for two pianos), Rock Recital Hall, Temple University, Brian Ciach, piano solo, Charity Wicks, piano reduction, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2003three settings cummings for baritone and piano, Lawrence Indik, baritone, Brian Ciach, piano, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2003 String Quintet (string quartet plus bass), Jessica Hoffman, vln I, Larry Major, vln II, Lori Simpson, vla, Eric Jones, cello, Matthew Roberts, bass, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2002 Partita for piano, Rock Recital Hall, Temple University, Charles Abramovic, piano
· Performances as Pianist
2011 World Premiere: The Marionettes of Distant Masters (2011) for piano, harp, guitar, and cello by Michael Sweeney, Student Composition Recital, Auer Hall, Indiana University
2011 World Premiere: Little Trio for piano, clarinet and bass (2011) by Phillip Johnson, Student Composition Recital for Non-Majors, Musical Arts Center, Indiana University
2011 Capriccio for violoncello and piano (1946) by Lukas Foss, Cello Concerto in C major by Joseph Haydn, Undergraduate Degree Recital, Kielty Wintersteen, cello, Recital Hall, Indiana University
2010 World Premiere: Manunkind for soprano and piano (2010) by Michael Sweeney, Master’s degree recital, Indiana University, Recital Hall, Liz Pearse, soprano
2010 World Premiere: Five Bagatelles for piano solo (2010) by Natalie Williams, Doctoral Chamber Recital, Indiana University, Recital Hall
2009 World Premiere: Lucretia for soprano and piano trio (2008) by Joni Greene, Master’s degree recital, Indiana University, Auer Concert Hall, Sharon Harms, soprano, Sarah Müller-Feser, vln, Maya Nojiri, cello, Matthew Holzner, conductor
2009Five Piano Etudes After J.S. Bach, IV.Et Invisibilium (2005) by Eric Lindsay, Student Composition Recital, Indiana University, Recital Hall
2008 World Premiere: Autumn Rhythm for wind ensemble (2007) by Eric Nathan, Master’s degree recital, Indiana University, Auer Concert Hall
2007 World Premiere: Trio for Horn, Violin, and Piano (2007) by Benjamin Blazer, “New Music by Brian Ciach and Benjamin Blazer”, The First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia
2007 World Premiere: Sonata for Oboe and Piano (2007) by Allen McCullough, Penn Composers Guild Concert, the University of Pennsylvania, Rose Recital Hall
2006 Piano Sonata in f minor, Op. 57, “Appassionata” by Ludwig van Beethoven, the Philadelphia Composers Society, salon concert, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
2006 Piano Sonata in Eb major, Op. 7 by Ludwig van Beethoven, the Philadelphia Composers Society, salon concert, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
2005The Schuylkill at Night for solo piano (2004), II, by David Laganella, Prelude from Prelude, Hymn and Toccata for piano solo (1996) by Robert Maggio, Preludes for Piano, II. (Chamber of the Harpers), III., and VII. (Il Cembalo di Matteo Ricci) (2002) by Mark Rimple, Music of Twelve Centers, No. 1, 2, and 4 (1985) by Larry Nelson, “Piano Music by the West Chester University Composition Department”, West Chester University, Swope Hall
2005 World Premiere: Plaints and Airs for flute, oboe and piano (2005) by Maurice Wright, Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, Brian Ciach, piano, Prema Kesselman, flute, Jeremy Kesselman, oboe
2004 World Premiere: Music for Piano and iPod: “Bells” (2004) by Paul Geissinger, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2004 Master’s Piano Recital, Rock Recital Hall, Temple University. Schoenberg, Suite, Op. 25, J. S. Bach, PartitaNo. 5, Richard Wernick, Piano Sonata No. 1
2003Makrokosmos, Volume I, Part 1 (1974) for amplified piano by George Crumb, The Rite of Spring, Part 1 (piano, four hands), recital final exam for Lambert Orkis’s Twentieth Century Piano Music Doctoral Seminar, Temple University, Rock Recital Hall
2003 World Premiere: Five Pages for Piano (2003) by Benjamin Blazer, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2003Microsonoridad No. 1-4 for piano and guitar (2003), Guarareña for piccolo and piano (2003), Arizona for flute, piano, and cello (1999) by Emiliano Pardo-Tristán, professional recording, Temple University, Rock Recital Hall
2003 World Premiere: #5 for piano solo (2003) by John Ebbert, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2003 World Premiere: The Gypsy Dancer (2003) for violin and piano by John Ebbert, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2003 World Premiere: Ficta Nos. 6, 10, and 11 for piano solo (1997) by Mark Jarcisin, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2003 World Premiere: Compline for baritone and piano by Cameron Harris, Penn Composers Guild Concert, the Curtis Institute of Music, Field Concert Hall
2003 Handel, Trio Sonata in g minor, Op. 5, No. 5 (2 violins, cello, harpsichord), figured bass realization in performance, final project of Baroque Keyboard Performance Practice, Joyce Lindorff, Instructor, Temple University, Rock Recital Hall
2002Concertino for piano, winds, and timpani (1979) by George Perle, Contemporary Music Ensemble, Temple University, Rock Recital Hall, Jay Crush, director
2002 World Premiere: Two Pieces for Viola and Piano: Glimpes and Beyond (2002) by Stacey Decker, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2002 World Premiere: Woodland Song for clarinet and piano (2002) by Alexander deVaron, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2002 World Premiere: Two Pieces for Viola and Piano (2003) by Sarah Lee, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2002 Drei Klavierstücke, Op. 11 by Arnold Schoenberg, Pi Kappa Lambda Competition Winners Concert (first prize, piano)
2002 Bachelor’s Piano Recital, Rock Recital Hall, Temple University, J.S. Bach, Goldberg Variations, Messiaen, Vingt Regards, XV. Le baiser de l’Enfant-Jésus
1998 Solo Debut Piano Recital (competition winner of the Delaware Contest for Young Musicians), First and Central Presbyterian Church, Wilmington, Delaware, J.S. Bach, Prelude and Fugue in C# major, WTC I, Dimitri Shostakovich, Prelude and Fugue in A major, Op. 87, Sergei Rachmaninoff, Etudes-Tableau, Op. 33, No. 8 in g minor, Op. 39, No. 9 in D major, Frederic Chopin, Scherzo in c# minor, Piano Sonata in C major, “Waldstein”, Op. 53, Beethoven
• Organizations
Project Jumpstart, Student Adviser, Indiana University (2010-2011)
Indiana University Student Composers Association (Co-President, 2008-2009)
ASCAP
SEAMUS
American Composers Forum
Philadelphia Composers Society (founding Co-Director, 2005-2007)
Temple University Graduate Composers (President, 2003-2004, co-creator of Sound Prints, the TUGC concert series)
Pi Kappa Lambda (honorary member, 2002)
• Awards
2012 ASCAPLUS Award,Recognition of creative contributions to American music in 2011-2012 ($250.)
2011 The Indiana University Dean’s Prize in orchestral composition ($500.), performance by an IU orchestra of Collective Uncommon: Seven Orchestral Studies on Medical Oddities
2010 The 2011 American Liszt Society Bicentennial Composition Competition, (international award), First Prize for Piano Sonata No. 2 ($2,000.), Performance by pianist Paul Barnes at the ALS Bicentennial Festival at the University of Georgia, Athens, GA
2010 The Indiana University 2010 Georgina Joshi Composition Commission Prize, Dean’s Prize ($1,000 prize and commission for a new work for voice and ensemble to be premiered by the IU New Music Ensemble in 2010-2011), submitted work: Mölna Elegy
2008 The National Federation of Music Clubs Emil and Ruth Beyer Composition Award, Piano Solo Division, First Prize for Piano Sonata No. 2 ($2,000.)
2008 The Presser Music Award, Indiana University ($10,500.)
2007 The Rising Star Alumni Award, Delaware County Community College
2004 The John Henry Heller, Jr. Award for Excellence in Music Composition, Temple University ($500.)
2002 The Jacobs Music Steinway Award for outstanding pianistic ability and scholarship, Temple University ($500.)
2002 The Phi Kappa Lambda Student Competition, first prize, piano, Temple University ($200.)
1998 The Pottstown Symphony Orchestra Young Concerto Soloist Competition, First Place, Piano, Senior Division, Maurice Ravel, Piano Concerto in G major
1998 The MTNA Concerto Competition, first place, piano, Pennsylvania Statewide Competition
1997 The Delaware Contest for Young Musicians, first place, piano, Delaware Statewide Competition ($250.)
Contemporary Music Performance Specialist (Pianist)
Music Theorist
Arranger
3271-7 E Covenanter Dr
Bloomington, IN 47401
baciach@umail.iu.edu
• Education
2007-2011 Indiana University, the Jacobs School of Music, Bloomington, Indiana, Doctor of Music in Composition, Minor Fields: Music Theory, Computer Music, GPA 3.97
2006-2007 The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, PhD in Music Composition, one year of coursework, transferred to Indiana University
2002-2004 Temple University, The Boyer College of Music, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Master’s Degree in Piano Performance, Master’s Degree in Music Composition (concurrent), GPA 3.98
1998-2002 Temple University, The Boyer College of Music, Bachelor’s Degree in Piano Performance, summa cum laude, GPA 3.86
1995-1998 Delaware County Community College, Media, Pennsylvania, Associates Degree in Liberal Arts, high honors, GPA 3.51
1991-1995 Marple Newtown Senior High School, Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, Diploma
Composition
Indiana University: Sven-David Sandström, John Gibson, Jeffrey Hass, Don Freund, Claude Baker, P.Q. Phan
Freie Universität Berlin: Samuel Adler
University of Pennsylvania: Jay Reise
Private instruction: Richard Wernick
Temple University: Matthew Greenbaum, Maurice Wright, Richard Brodhead
Piano
Indiana University: Luba Edlina-Dubinsky
Temple University: Charles Abramovic, Ignat Solzhenitsyn, Lambert Orkis, Harvey Wedeen
The Wilmington Music School: Benjamin Whitten
Darlington Arts Center: Harue Sato
Conducting
Indiana University: Ben Bolter
Freie Universität Berlin: Emily Freeman Brown
Temple University: Larry Wagner, Arthur Chodoroff
Composition
Osvaldo Golijov (String Quartet, the University of Pennsylvania)
Cindy Cox (Piano Sonata No. 2, IU)
Michael Quell (Piano Trio in B, soundSCAPE festival)
Kotoka Suzuki (Mölna Elegy for soprano and four percussionists, IU)
Piano
Charles Rosen (Beethoven, Piano Sonata in c minor, Op. 111, Temple University)
Gilbert Kalish (Olivier Messiaen, Vingt regards sur l’enfant-Jésus, XIII. Nöel)
Alexander Fiorillo (Haydn, F minor Variations, TU)
Menahem Pressler (Bach, Partita No. 5 in G major, TU)
Ruth Laredo (Prokofiev, Sonata No. 7 in Bb Major, Op. 83, Wilmington Music School)
2012 The Mizzou New Music Summer Festival, Performance of The Einstein Slide (2012, appendix to Collective Uncommon) commission for Alarm Will Sound, workshops and seminars with Steven Stuckey and Donnacha Dennehy
2009 Freie Universität Berlin internationale Sommer (FUBiS, International Summer University of Freie Universität Berlin), Berlin, Germany: composition studies with Samuel Adler, woodwind quartet performance of Eastside Madrigals at the New Synagoge of Berlin
2009 SEAMUS (Society for Electro-Acoustic Music in the United States) National Convention, Fort Wayne, Indiana: performance of Waterclocks (stereo audio)
2009 Ball State Festival 39: New Music 2009, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana: performance of se vuoi (stereo audio)
2009 Midwest Composers Symposium, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan: performance of Chaconne for cello and electronic music
2008 Freie Universität Berlin internationale Sommer (FUBiS, International Summer University of Freie Universität Berlin), Berlin, Germany: composition studies with Samuel Adler, conducting studies with Emily Freeman Brown, German language studies with Bettina Pohle, string trio performance of 3-minute Trio at the New Synagoge of Berlin
2008 soundSCAPE International Contemporary Music Festival, Pavia, Italy: composition studies with Michael Quell, studies in instrumentation and improvisation, masterclasses, performance of Ekelof Fractures (Mölna Elegy) at the Maria Guilieri Church, Pavia, Italy
2007-2010 Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, Associate Instructor in Music Theory, Musical Skills (Aural Skills) I, II, III, Sight-Singing Review and Aural Theory Review (dictation) for Graduate Students, Theory of Music V (20th Century techniques)
2004-2006 West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania, Adjunct Instructor, Theory of Music I, II, developed my own curriculum for Theory IV (20th Century), Aural Activities I, II, III, developed my own curriculum for Aurals IV (20th Century), Composition V (Private lessons), Graduate Seminar in the Pedagogy of Theory (Samuel Barber Summer Institute, WCU)
2004-2006 Settlement Music School (Germantown and West Philadelphia branches), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Instructor of Theory Class and Private Piano Lessons (children and adults)
2004-2006 Darlington Arts Center, Media, Pennsylvania, Instructor of Theory Class and Private Piano Lessons (children and adults)
2005 Delaware County Community College, Media, Pennsylvania, Instructor of Piano Class (children and adults, piano lab)
2002-2004 Temple University, Graduate Assistantship, undergraduate secondary piano lessons
2000-2002 Manayunk Community Center for the Arts, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, beginner piano lessons
1997 The Episcopal Academy of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Music Apprenticeship, Summer Music Theory Workshop, Michael Margerite, Instructor
· Guest Lecturer
2011 “Composing for the Piano: Traditional and Extended Techniques”, Undergraduate Instrumentation Course, Elliot Bark, Instructor, Indiana University, the Jacobs School of Music, Bloomington, Indiana
2010 “Brian Ciach: From Pianist to Composer”, Mock job interview and presentation of original works, Composition Seminar K1500, Indiana University, the Jacobs School of Music
2010 “Composing for the Piano”, Undergraduate Instrumentation Course, Natalie Williams, Instructor, Indiana University, the Jacobs School of Music, Bloomington, Indiana
2005 “The Pianist’s Composer: Effective Methods and Tips for Writing for the Piano”, Graduate Instrumentation Course, Larry Nelson, Professor, West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania
2003 “The Music of Brian Ciach: a presentation of three settings cummings for baritone and piano”, Undergraduate Music Appreciation Course, Jill Meehan, Instructor, Temple University, the Boyer College of Music, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Professional Experience
2002-2004 Contemporary Music Performance Specialist (pianist), Graduate Assistantship, Temple University, Boyer College of Music (premiering various piano solo and chamber works by Temple University graduate composers—a unique assistantship position created for me by Maurice Wright, TU composition department)
2003 Professional recording: Contemporary Music from Panama (Fermata Publications, CD 837101277112), The works of Emiliano Pardo-Tristán, composer, Brian Ciach, piano (tracks 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11), recorded in Rock Recital Hall, Temple University
1999 Rehearsal Accompanist, Master’s degree recital in choral conducting, Scott Finch, director, performing organ and piano
1998 Rehearsal Accompanist, University Chorale ensemble, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Janet Yamron, director
1997 Rehearsal Accompanist, vocal studio, Wilmington Arts Center, Wilmington, Delaware
• Performances of Original Works
2012 The Einstein Slide(appendix to Collective Uncommon, 2011), commissioned work for Alarm Will Sound, The Mizzou New Music Summer Festival
2012 Blank Slate for percussion quartet (entirely "found" instruments), commissioned work for Round Peg Square Hole, Auer Hall, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN
2012 Collective Uncommon: Seven Orchestral Studies on Medical Oddities, The Minnesota Orchestra, Osmo Vänskä, conductor, The Minnesota Orchestra Composer Institute, Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis, MN
2011 Collective Uncommon: Seven Orchestral Studies on Medical Oddities, written for the Philadelphia Mütter Museum: Of the College of Physicians (to be featured on their audio tour), winner of the 2011 Indiana University Dean’s Prize in orchestral composition, David Effron, conductor, IU orchestra, Musical Arts Center, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN
2011 Road Trip for soprano and chamber orchestra, commissioned by Indiana University as the winner of the Georgina Joshi Commission Prize, Dean’s Prize in Music Composition, The Indiana University New Music Ensemble, Sharon Harms, soprano, David Dzubay, director, Auer Hall, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN
2011 Piano Sonata No. 2, The American Liszt Society Bicentennial Festival, “Liszt and the Future”, performance as the winner of the festival’s composition competition, Matthew Gianforte, piano, Ramsey Hall, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA
2010 Two Berlin Preludes for piano solo, Andrea Clearfield’s Music Salon, Philadelphia, PA, Jean-Francois Proulx, piano
2010 Mountain Song for piano and tuba, Octubafest, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, Ford Recital Hall, Paul Carlson, tuba, Brian Ciach, piano
2010 Violin Concerto for violin and orchestra (piano reduction version), movement I, The Philmore Ensemble (concert honoring Philadelphia composers), Myanna Harvey, violin solo, Tim Ribchester, piano, The Philadelphia Ethical Society, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
2010 Doctoral Chamber Recital (Doctor of Music Composition Degree Recital), Indiana University, Two Berlin Preludes for piano solo, Brian Ciach, piano, Mölna Elegy for soprano and four percussionists, Sharon Harms, soprano, Max Tholenaar-Maples, Sam Lents, Nate Lee, Brian Mueller, percussion, Brian Ciach, conductor, Ich bin, stereo audio, Mountain Song for tuba and piano, Paul Carlson, tuba, Brian Ciach, piano, Water Clocks, stereo audio, Whitman Carol for SATB a cappella choir, Vivian Ip, conductor, Auer Concert Hall, Bloomington, Indiana
2009 Two Berlin Preludes for piano, Student Composition Recital, Auer Hall, Indiana University, Brian Ciach, piano
2009Strange Assortments for percussion ensemble, Indiana University Percussion Ensemble, Auer Hall, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
2009Eastside Madrigals for woodwind quartet, “Windsongs—Music for Woodwinds”, Freie Universität Berlin (FUBiS), Neue Synagoge, Berlin, Germany
2009Complex Variables (Free) for solo marimba and dancers, the Hammer and Nail Concert Series (a composer/choreographer collaboration project sponsored by the IU Student Composers Association), Buskirk Chumley Theater, Bloomington, Indiana, Abby Lansdown, dance choreographer
2009 Mölna Elegy for soprano and four percussionists, SUNY Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, Amanda DeBoer, soprano, the University of Buffalo Percussion Ensemble
2009 se vuoi, stereo audio, the 39th New Music Festival, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana
2009Water Clocks, stereo audio, SEAMUS National Convention, Fort Wayne, Indiana
2009Chaconne for cello and stereo audio, Midwest Composers Symposium, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
2008Ekelöf Fracturesfor soprano and three percussionists, soundSCAPE International Contemporary Music Festival, Pavia, Italy
20083-Minute Trio for string trio, “From Us To You—New Chamber Music From America,” Freie Universität Berlin (FUBiS), Neue Synagoge, Berlin, Germany
2008Trio in B for violin, cello and piano, Student Composition Recital, Auer Hall, Indiana University, Véronique Mathieu, violin, Lee-Lyung Park, cello, Brian Ciach, piano
2007 Two Piano Sonatas, “New Music by Brian Ciach and Jeremy Jennings”, The First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia, Brian Ciach, piano
2007 Piano Sonata No. 2, world premiere, “Penn Composers Guild”, Rose Recital Hall, University of Pennsylvania, Brian Ciach, piano
2006String Quartet and Piano Sonata, “String Quartets, Fanfares, and Sonatas: Works by Brian Ciach and Paul DiFrancesco”, The Philadelphia Ethical Society, Brian Ciach, piano, student string quartet from the Curtis Institute of Music: Joel Link, vln I, Dana Anderson, vln II, Alex Link, vla, Hiro Matsuo, cello
2006String Quartet, world premiere, “Penn Composer’s Guild”, Rose Recital Hall, University of Pennsylvania, student string quartet from the Curtis Institute of Music: Joel Link, vln I, Dana Anderson, vln II, Alex Link, vla, Hiro Matsuo, cello
2005Berg Variations, world premiere, and works by West Chester University faculty, “Piano Music by the Composition Faculty at W.C.U.”, Brian Ciach, piano, Swope Recital Hall, West Chester University
2004 Piano Concerto (arrangement for two pianos), Rock Recital Hall, Temple University, Brian Ciach, piano solo, Charity Wicks, piano reduction, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2003three settings cummings for baritone and piano, Lawrence Indik, baritone, Brian Ciach, piano, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2003 String Quintet (string quartet plus bass), Jessica Hoffman, vln I, Larry Major, vln II, Lori Simpson, vla, Eric Jones, cello, Matthew Roberts, bass, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2002 Partita for piano, Rock Recital Hall, Temple University, Charles Abramovic, piano
· Performances as Pianist
2011 World Premiere: The Marionettes of Distant Masters (2011) for piano, harp, guitar, and cello by Michael Sweeney, Student Composition Recital, Auer Hall, Indiana University
2011 World Premiere: Little Trio for piano, clarinet and bass (2011) by Phillip Johnson, Student Composition Recital for Non-Majors, Musical Arts Center, Indiana University
2011 Capriccio for violoncello and piano (1946) by Lukas Foss, Cello Concerto in C major by Joseph Haydn, Undergraduate Degree Recital, Kielty Wintersteen, cello, Recital Hall, Indiana University
2010 World Premiere: Manunkind for soprano and piano (2010) by Michael Sweeney, Master’s degree recital, Indiana University, Recital Hall, Liz Pearse, soprano
2010 World Premiere: Five Bagatelles for piano solo (2010) by Natalie Williams, Doctoral Chamber Recital, Indiana University, Recital Hall
2009 World Premiere: Lucretia for soprano and piano trio (2008) by Joni Greene, Master’s degree recital, Indiana University, Auer Concert Hall, Sharon Harms, soprano, Sarah Müller-Feser, vln, Maya Nojiri, cello, Matthew Holzner, conductor
2009Five Piano Etudes After J.S. Bach, IV.Et Invisibilium (2005) by Eric Lindsay, Student Composition Recital, Indiana University, Recital Hall
2008 World Premiere: Autumn Rhythm for wind ensemble (2007) by Eric Nathan, Master’s degree recital, Indiana University, Auer Concert Hall
2007 World Premiere: Trio for Horn, Violin, and Piano (2007) by Benjamin Blazer, “New Music by Brian Ciach and Benjamin Blazer”, The First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia
2007 World Premiere: Sonata for Oboe and Piano (2007) by Allen McCullough, Penn Composers Guild Concert, the University of Pennsylvania, Rose Recital Hall
2006 Piano Sonata in f minor, Op. 57, “Appassionata” by Ludwig van Beethoven, the Philadelphia Composers Society, salon concert, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
2006 Piano Sonata in Eb major, Op. 7 by Ludwig van Beethoven, the Philadelphia Composers Society, salon concert, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
2005The Schuylkill at Night for solo piano (2004), II, by David Laganella, Prelude from Prelude, Hymn and Toccata for piano solo (1996) by Robert Maggio, Preludes for Piano, II. (Chamber of the Harpers), III., and VII. (Il Cembalo di Matteo Ricci) (2002) by Mark Rimple, Music of Twelve Centers, No. 1, 2, and 4 (1985) by Larry Nelson, “Piano Music by the West Chester University Composition Department”, West Chester University, Swope Hall
2005 World Premiere: Plaints and Airs for flute, oboe and piano (2005) by Maurice Wright, Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, Brian Ciach, piano, Prema Kesselman, flute, Jeremy Kesselman, oboe
2004 World Premiere: Music for Piano and iPod: “Bells” (2004) by Paul Geissinger, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2004 Master’s Piano Recital, Rock Recital Hall, Temple University. Schoenberg, Suite, Op. 25, J. S. Bach, PartitaNo. 5, Richard Wernick, Piano Sonata No. 1
2003Makrokosmos, Volume I, Part 1 (1974) for amplified piano by George Crumb, The Rite of Spring, Part 1 (piano, four hands), recital final exam for Lambert Orkis’s Twentieth Century Piano Music Doctoral Seminar, Temple University, Rock Recital Hall
2003 World Premiere: Five Pages for Piano (2003) by Benjamin Blazer, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2003Microsonoridad No. 1-4 for piano and guitar (2003), Guarareña for piccolo and piano (2003), Arizona for flute, piano, and cello (1999) by Emiliano Pardo-Tristán, professional recording, Temple University, Rock Recital Hall
2003 World Premiere: #5 for piano solo (2003) by John Ebbert, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2003 World Premiere: The Gypsy Dancer (2003) for violin and piano by John Ebbert, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2003 World Premiere: Ficta Nos. 6, 10, and 11 for piano solo (1997) by Mark Jarcisin, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2003 World Premiere: Compline for baritone and piano by Cameron Harris, Penn Composers Guild Concert, the Curtis Institute of Music, Field Concert Hall
2003 Handel, Trio Sonata in g minor, Op. 5, No. 5 (2 violins, cello, harpsichord), figured bass realization in performance, final project of Baroque Keyboard Performance Practice, Joyce Lindorff, Instructor, Temple University, Rock Recital Hall
2002Concertino for piano, winds, and timpani (1979) by George Perle, Contemporary Music Ensemble, Temple University, Rock Recital Hall, Jay Crush, director
2002 World Premiere: Two Pieces for Viola and Piano: Glimpes and Beyond (2002) by Stacey Decker, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2002 World Premiere: Woodland Song for clarinet and piano (2002) by Alexander deVaron, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2002 World Premiere: Two Pieces for Viola and Piano (2003) by Sarah Lee, “Sound Prints”, Temple University Graduate Composers Concert, Rock Recital Hall
2002 Drei Klavierstücke, Op. 11 by Arnold Schoenberg, Pi Kappa Lambda Competition Winners Concert (first prize, piano)
2002 Bachelor’s Piano Recital, Rock Recital Hall, Temple University, J.S. Bach, Goldberg Variations, Messiaen, Vingt Regards, XV. Le baiser de l’Enfant-Jésus
1998 Solo Debut Piano Recital (competition winner of the Delaware Contest for Young Musicians), First and Central Presbyterian Church, Wilmington, Delaware, J.S. Bach, Prelude and Fugue in C# major, WTC I, Dimitri Shostakovich, Prelude and Fugue in A major, Op. 87, Sergei Rachmaninoff, Etudes-Tableau, Op. 33, No. 8 in g minor, Op. 39, No. 9 in D major, Frederic Chopin, Scherzo in c# minor, Piano Sonata in C major, “Waldstein”, Op. 53, Beethoven
• Organizations
Project Jumpstart, Student Adviser, Indiana University (2010-2011)
Indiana University Student Composers Association (Co-President, 2008-2009)
ASCAP
SEAMUS
American Composers Forum
Philadelphia Composers Society (founding Co-Director, 2005-2007)
Temple University Graduate Composers (President, 2003-2004, co-creator of Sound Prints, the TUGC concert series)
Pi Kappa Lambda (honorary member, 2002)
• Awards
2012 ASCAPLUS Award,Recognition of creative contributions to American music in 2011-2012 ($250.)
2011 The Indiana University Dean’s Prize in orchestral composition ($500.), performance by an IU orchestra of Collective Uncommon: Seven Orchestral Studies on Medical Oddities
2010 The 2011 American Liszt Society Bicentennial Composition Competition, (international award), First Prize for Piano Sonata No. 2 ($2,000.), Performance by pianist Paul Barnes at the ALS Bicentennial Festival at the University of Georgia, Athens, GA
2010 The Indiana University 2010 Georgina Joshi Composition Commission Prize, Dean’s Prize ($1,000 prize and commission for a new work for voice and ensemble to be premiered by the IU New Music Ensemble in 2010-2011), submitted work: Mölna Elegy
2008 The National Federation of Music Clubs Emil and Ruth Beyer Composition Award, Piano Solo Division, First Prize for Piano Sonata No. 2 ($2,000.)
2008 The Presser Music Award, Indiana University ($10,500.)
2007 The Rising Star Alumni Award, Delaware County Community College
2004 The John Henry Heller, Jr. Award for Excellence in Music Composition, Temple University ($500.)
2002 The Jacobs Music Steinway Award for outstanding pianistic ability and scholarship, Temple University ($500.)
2002 The Phi Kappa Lambda Student Competition, first prize, piano, Temple University ($200.)
1998 The Pottstown Symphony Orchestra Young Concerto Soloist Competition, First Place, Piano, Senior Division, Maurice Ravel, Piano Concerto in G major
1998 The MTNA Concerto Competition, first place, piano, Pennsylvania Statewide Competition
1997 The Delaware Contest for Young Musicians, first place, piano, Delaware Statewide Competition ($250.)