PRESS PLAY Episode 76: For Fred Lerdahl

May 14, 2026

For Fred Lerdahl (2018)

Tyshawn Sorey (US)

Catharine Gray, viola
Gregory Oh, piano
Michael Murphy, percussion
Ryan Scott, percussion

“For Fred Lerdahl” (2018) is a work that was composed for the composer-theorist’s recent retirement as Fritz Reiner Professor of Music at Columbia University, during which time he was my principal teacher. This work not only seeks to pay homage to a composer whose music I like very much, but also one who provided me encouragement and unwavering support during a very long period of self doubt while at Columbia. He almost singlehandedly (along with George Lewis) provided a platform for me to truly believe in myself, to be honest in my own output, and to embrace my interests as an artist, rather than to fight or question them. For these reasons, this composition is dedicated to him and his influence on many…yours truly included.