Tobias Picker, born in New York City in 1954, is a celebrated American composer, pianist, and conductor renowned for his soulful and distinctive avant-garde style. Praised by The Wall Street Journal as "our finest composer for the lyric stage," Picker's prolific career spans all genres, with his works commissioned and performed by the world's leading musicians, orchestras, and opera houses. His recent opera won the Oper! Award for the best world premiere of 2023, featuring the groundbreaking trans baritone Lucia Lucas. As the Artistic Director of The Opera San Antonio, Picker continues to leave an indelible mark on the contemporary music scene. His discography includes notable albums such as "Awakenings" (2023), "Opera Without Words & The Encantadas" (2020), and "Fantastic Mr. Fox" (2019).