Joseph
Harchanko has written extensively for traditional instruments, large ensembles,
and digital media. His music has been described as both "energetic and
exhilarating" and "mystically alluring."* A cellist by training,
his interest in percussion music was sparked while working as a percussion mover
to support himself through graduate school. Dr. Harchanko is
also an active electric cellist. His music is available on the INNOVA record label and through Latham Music
Publishing and Keyboard Percussion Publications.
Harchanko lives in Salem, Oregon where many of his works are inspired by the
western landscape. He is an Assistant Professor of Composition, Theory, and
Violoncello at Western Oregon University. Previously,
he was an Assistant Professor and iCommunications fellow at Ball State
University where work is primarily centered at Ball State's Music Technology
Studio and with the Digital Media minor. He
received his D.M.A. in composition at The University of Texas and holds masters
degrees in cello and composition from The Florida State University. He has been
awarded fellowships from ASCAP, the Aspen Music Festival, the Lilly Endowment,
and UT. His works have been performed across North America, Europe, Asia, and
Australia including
performances at New York’s Carnegie Hall, London’s Colourscape installation,
France’s Bourges and Videoformes festivals, and New Music Tasmania.
*Dallas Morning News and Austin American Statesman
Click here to view Dr. Harchanko's resumé.
Joseph Harchanko lives in Salem, Oregon with his wife, Mary Ellen Dello Stritto, and their dog, Denali. He is an avid hiker, skier (both Nordic and down-hill), and gardener. With the exception of his website, he does note usually refer to himself in the third person.
Contact: Joseph Harchanko