Paul Chihara

Paul Chihara, born on July 9, 1938, is an American composer of Japanese descent whose career spans concert music, film scores, and Broadway musicals. A distinguished figure in the music world, Chihara founded and chaired the UCLA Visual Media graduate program, dedicated to training composers for various media. He also served as the first Composer-in-Residence with the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra from 1971 to 1973. With a rich discography and a legacy as a UCLA Distinguished Emeritus Professor of Music, Chihara's work continues to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of musicians. His compositions blend diverse influences, reflecting his unique background and extensive experience in both academic and professional settings.