John Clay Allen

John Clay Allen is a lecturer of music technology and composition.

Allen is a Colorado-based composer, pianist and computer musician originally from Ruidoso, New Mexico. His work ranges from noisy ambient soundscapes to lush neoromantic symphonic pieces, reflecting his ever-evolving sonic obsessions. While perpetually inspired by digital tools and their possibilities, Allen’s work is deeply rooted in the natural world and draws on human connection and experience.

He is regularly commissioned by orchestras and chamber groups across the country and his music has been performed throughout the United States as well as in Europe and South America. His first two albums, “Asnières” and “Turn” take the piano and saxophone respectively as their starting points, using electronics to expand their acoustic possibilities. Allen’s third album—“Deep Star Atlas” featuring solo piano—is slated for release in late 2024.

Allen is composer-in-residence with the Boulder Symphony and has collaborated with ensembles including the Arapahoe Philharmonic, Ajax String Quartet and the Boulder Altitude Directive. His compositions and arrangements have been performed by internationally acclaimed guitarist Trace Bundy and Grammy Award-winning soprano Michelle DeYoung.

Allen earned a doctorate in music composition from the University of Colorado Boulder. He also holds degrees in composition and piano from the University of North Texas and West Texas A&M University.

Composition  Music technology