Nina Shekhar
(b. 1995)
Lumina
Composed 2020
American composer and multi-instrumentalist Nina Shekhar has emerged as a vibrant voice in the contemporary music scene. Her compositions, rich in personal narrative and cultural introspection, challenge and captivate audiences. Shekhar, a young artist with an already impressive portfolio, held the prestigious role of 2021-23 Composer in Residence for Young Concert Artists and frequently showcases her talents as a flutist, pianist, and saxophonist.
In her work, Shekhar navigates the intricate maze of identity, vulnerability, love, and laughter. The theme of vulnerability is particularly pronounced, as seen in her musical explorations of personal challenges, including her struggles with OCD (Obsessive-compulsive Disorder).
This introspective journey makes her music not only a creative expression but also a mirror reflecting her deep inner experiences.
Lumina, a piece composed for the USC Thornton Orchestra, is a quintessential example of Shekhar's exploration of contrasting themes. Shekhar’s attention to the power of silence within music and her incorporation of elements from Hindustani classical music highlight her innovative approach to composition. She says this of her work:
Lumina explores the spectrum of light and dark and the murkiness in between. Using swift contrasts between bright, sharp timbres and cloudy textures and dense harmonies, the piece captures sudden bursts of radiance amongst the eeriness of shadows.
Shekhar's recent and upcoming projects showcase her dynamic range, from multimedia compositions to works for youth orchestras. Her accolades, including the Rudolf Nissim Prize and multiple ASCAP Morton Gould Young Composer Awards, attest to her extraordinary talent and contributions to the field of music composition.
Currently a PhD candidate at Princeton University, Shekhar has an impressive academic background, holding degrees in both music composition and chemical engineering. Her commitment to education is evident in her roles as a composition faculty member at Mannes School of Music at the New School, where she nurtures the next generation of composers.
A first-generation Indian American from Detroit, Shekhar weaves her diverse experiences and heritage into her compositions, creating music that resonates with a wide array of audiences. Her works, characterized by a blend of emotional depth and cultural reflection, position her as a unique and powerful voice in the contemporary classical music landscape. As we experience her music, we are invited into a world where vulnerability and identity converge, creating a profound and enriching musical journey.
Instrumentation – two flutes, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons, four horns, three trumpets, three trombones, tuba, percussion, and strings
Duration – 11 minutes
~ Kenneth Bean
Georg and Joyce Albers-Schonberg Assistant Conductor
Princeton Symphony Orchestra
Photo credit: Shervin Lainez
