Andrew Cote (b.1988)
is a Grammy nominated music teacher and American composer whose diverse body of work spans orchestral, choral, chamber, and electroacoustic music.
Cote's formative years were marked by a profound engagement with rock and popular music, beginning formally studying drums and percussion, and later teaching himself how to play bass, guitar, and piano. This multi-instrumental background played a crucial role in later shaping his formal, classical music education.
Andrew earned his Bachelors of Music Degree in Music Education from the University of New Hampshire in 2010, and then moved directly into a fellowship program at Central Michigan University, where he taught courses in Aural Skills and worked as an audio engineer. After completing his fellowship and graduating with a Masters in Music Composition in 2012, he then accepted another fellowship at George Mason University. While at George Mason, Andrew Completed his Doctorate in Music Composition in 2016, while also teaching a variety of courses including Aural Skills, Music Technology, Music Theory, Popular Music History, and directed the School's Contemporary Music Ensemble. His composition teachers include Andrew Boysen Jr., Michael Annicchiarico, David Gillingham, Jay Batzner, Jesse Guessford, and Mark Camphouse.
Cote's compositional style is noted for its eclecticism, blending elements of contemporary classical music with influences from rock, and electronic music. His music often explores complex rhythmic structures, while using mostly tonal and minimalist harmony.
Cote has received numerous commissions and his works have been performed by a wide array of ensembles and soloists. His works have been featured at the Navy Band International Saxophone Symposium, the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic, the World Saxophone Congress, and various other festivals and conferences. His latest album, Ulterior Motives: The Saxophone Music of Andrew Cote, is available on itunes, Amazon, and most other online retailers.
In addition to his concert music, Cote is an active participant in the world of film and media composition. Recent scores include short films for the Boston Sculptures Gallery, the Hartford Dada Art Show, and the Podcast series, Consolation Prize, published through the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media.
Cote is also dedicated to music education and community engagement. He currently is an Assistant Professor of Practice in Music at Merrimack College, where he also serves as the Music Program Director and Assistant Director of Bands. Andrew also teaches periodically at the Nashua Community Music School in his home town of Nashua, NH.
Currently, Cote continues to compose, perform, and teach, constantly seeking new ways to innovate and collaborate. If you are interested in working with Andrew or have any new or crazy ideas to pitch, don't hesitate to reach out via the contact form.