Herschel Garfein is a twice Grammy-winning composer and lyricist. Recent works include Valediction and Screed for alto saxophone and string orchestra, commissioned by The BB&B Orchestra of Boston for saxophonist Ken Radnofsky. His work The Layers for cello and piano has reached 400,000 streams on Spotify and was hailed as “Magnificent…a beautifully accessible piece that has elements of drama, but also elements of great textural splendor.” (Winnipeg Public Radio). His 2018 song cycle Mortality Mansions: Songs of Love and Loss After 60, a collaboration with the late poet Donald Hall, premiered at Columbia University’s Heyman Center for the Humanities and was released on Delos Records. (“Shimmering, expressive song cycle” San Francisco Chronicle). Next season his Las Canciones de Sor Juana will premiere with Bach Collegium of San Diego. Garfein has worked extensively as a librettist: Robert Aldridge’s Elmer Gantry (Grammy Award 2012) and Sister Carrie, Robert S. Cohen’s Alzheimer’s Stories, Fred Hersch’s My Coma Dreams. He has been privileged to compose for great theater artists including choreographer Mark Morris, theater collective Mabou Mines, and director Sir Peter Hall. Garfein teaches Composition at New York University where in 2013 he won the Excellence in Teaching Award.