Robert S. Muczynski

Robert S. Muczynski Renowned composer/pianist, lost his courageous battle with Leukemia on May 25, 2010. He was born in Chicago, Illinois, on March 19, 1929 to Irene and Stanley Muczynski (deceased). He is survived by his loving sister, Gloria and by his dear friend and companion, Harry Atwood. Considered one of America's most distinguished contemporary composers, Robert was the recipient of a Pulitzer Prize nomination, two Ford Foundation fellowships, and more than 30 ASCAP creative merit awards. His orchestral and chamber music has been featured at Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center, Orchestra Hall in Chicago, Wigmore Hall in London, and in many other venues, world-wide. Thoroughly schooled in traditional harmony and counterpoint, Muczynski never abandoned his classical roots. The New Grove Dictionary of American Music describes his style as "earnest, economical and unostentatious, characterized by spare, neo-classical textures, a gently restrained lyricism and strongly accented, irregular meters, which create a vigorous rhythmic drive." To quote a friend and colleague: "He has spent his life trying to enhance the human spirit. He writes music from the heart." Muczynski was head of the composition department and composer-in-residence at the University of Arizona for 23 years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society of Southern Arizona. Services will be private.