Global - This young man is serious, driven, witty and focused. Kendall Williams’ journey with the steelpan instrument began at the age of four as he mimicked the steelpan performances of his parents. He is that singular combination of talent, intellect and wisdom beyond his years. He is currently the Van Lier Emerging Composer Fellow for the American Composers Orchestra (ACO). In addition Kendall is the arranger for Brooklyn’s CrossFire Steel Orchestra.
Kendall Williams
He is a graduate from Florida Memorial University (BA Music) and acquired a M.M. in Music Theory & Composition from NYU Steinhardt in 2013.
Dr. Dawn Batson of Florida Memorial was pivotal in Kendall’s decision to pursue further studies. He says “I was actually back and forth as to whether or not I should get my masters. I approached Dr. Batson for advice, and she gave plenty reasons why it would benefit me. She advised that getting into composition would be the best and closest thing to arranging....She also mentioned that NYU (New York University) had an eclectic music program in which my music would have fit in perfectly. Through WST (When Steel Talks) I found out that NYU also had a Steel band - and from there, NYU was my only choice. It was NYU or nothing!”
Kendall will begin his Ph.D. pursuit at Princeton University beginning this Fall 2014.
Watch an exclusive interview with Kendall Williams - UpClose!
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