Daniel (Jingyang) Cui, a Chinese-born composer, draws inspiration from his rich Chinese heritage, encompassing culture, history, and contemporary social issues. Having spent considerable time abroad, he passionately shares his unique perspectives on China through his musical compositions. His creativity is not confined to grand themes alone, as he finds inspiration in the subtleties of daily life, be it the charm of animals or a whimsical anecdote. Cui’s diverse body of work spans from chamber pieces to orchestral compositions, reflecting the breadth of his artistic expression. Cui is currently pursuing his PhD in composition at University of California San Diego.
Daniel Cui is a recipient of several prestigious honors, including the American Composers Earshot Fellowship, the Jacobs School of Music Georgina Joshi Commission Prize, and the NOTUS Contemporary Vocal Ensemble Student Composition Contest, among others. His compositions have been performed by renowned ensembles such as WildUp, Tacet(i) Ensemble, Hub New Music, Prism Quartet, ~Nois Saxophone Quartet, Project Fusion Saxophone Quartet, Indiana University New Music Ensemble, Vinola Trio, Texas New Music Ensemble, NOTUS Contemporary Vocal Ensemble, Indiana University Concert Band, and the Sydney Conservatorium Clarinet Ensemble. Cui’s work has also been featured by orchestras, including American Composers Orchestra, Indiana University Chamber Orchestra, and Sydney Conservatorium Orchestra. Cui has also participated in multiple residencies at prominent music festivals such as TUTTI festival, CAMPGround, Connecticut Summerfest, among others.
Prior to his current pursuits, Cui completed his master’s degree at Indiana University, Jacobs School of Music, under the mentorship of David Dzubay and Aaron Travers, Cui has been honored with the JSOM Fellowship and the Irving & Leno Lo Scholarship Fund. Cui completed his bachelor’s degree in composition at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music in Australia, studying under the esteemed Australian composer Carl Vine.
