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Christopher Jessup is an American composer and pianist whose work has been noted for its lyrical and contemporary characteristics. His music, often influenced by poetry, philosophy, and astronomy, spans a range of genres including solo, chamber, choral, and orchestral compositions. Critics have described his work as “lovely” (The New York Times), “imaginative” (Fanfare), and “ethereal” (Textura).
Jessup first attracted attention at age sixteen with the premiere of his own piano concerto in Italy. As a performer, he has appeared at venues such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and National Sawdust, as well as festivals and performance spaces in North America and Europe. His piano playing has been described as “refined and eloquent” (New York Concert Review) and “absolutely breathtaking” (Interlude).
His compositions have been commissioned, performed, or recorded by ensembles and artists including the London Symphony Orchestra, The Crossing, the Juilliard Orchestra, the Brno Contemporary Orchestra, the New York Virtuoso Singers, the Kühn Choir of Prague, the National Sawdust Ensemble, cellist Jeffrey Zeigler, violinist Kevin Zhu, pianist Nadia Shpachenko, pianist Allison Brewster Franzetti, and violist Brett Deubner.
Jessup’s work includes contributions to several Grammy-recognized recordings. He has also received honors from ASCAP, the American Prize, the Respighi Prize, and National Sawdust. His music has been covered in publications including The New York Times, Billboard, Gramophone, Fanfare, and Pianist Magazine, and has been broadcast on NPR and Classic FM. His recordings appear on the Navona Records label, and his works are published by BCP Music.
Jessup studied composition at The Juilliard School with Melinda Wagner and piano with Jerome Lowenthal. He is based in New York City, where he continues his work as a composer and performer. |
