Christian Asplund

Christian Asplund is a distinguished Canadian-American composer and performer, currently serving as a faculty member at Brigham Young University. His academic and creative pursuits are deeply rooted in the exploration of the intersections between text and music, as well as the dynamic interplay between improvisation and composition. Asplund is particularly noted for his innovative approach to modular textures and forms, which has garnered him recognition and support through numerous awards and grants from esteemed organizations. Throughout his career, Asplund has collaborated with a diverse array of renowned musicians, including the likes of Reggie Watts and John Butcher, which has further enriched his artistic endeavors. His compositions, which are published by Frog Peak Music, reflect his deep engagement with experimental music and the principles of indeterminacy, drawing inspiration from figures such as Morton Feldman. Asplund's academic background is robust, with degrees in composition from the University of Washington, Mills College, and Brigham Young University. His scholarly interests extend into the realms of religion, which often inform his creative output. At Brigham Young University, he is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of musicians, teaching a wide range of courses that include music theory, composition, orchestration, counterpoint, and experimental music. In addition to his academic responsibilities, Asplund is actively involved in avant-garde jazz, performance art, and improvisation, areas where he continues to push the boundaries of traditional music forms. His commitment to sacred music is also evident in his teaching and compositional work, where he seeks to explore the spiritual dimensions of music. Christian Asplund's contributions to the field of music are marked by a continuous quest for innovation and a deep respect for the transformative power of music. His work not only enriches the academic community at Brigham Young University but also resonates with a broader audience, reflecting his belief in the universal language of music.