Doug Spata was born in St. Louis, Missouri but spent a period of his childhood in Kandy, Sri Lanka – an experience that left him with a lifelong curiosity and appreciation for world cultures, music and art. His interest in music composition began at an early age and led him to study music theory, history and orchestration. Though he is a clarinetist by training, his years of experience as an orchestra teacher have led him to compose primarily for strings. 

 Mr. Spata’s first published work, Gauntlet, has gone on to become one of the staples of the string repertoire and several of his subsequent publication have earned the J.W. Pepper Editor’s Choice award and have been short-listed as part of their “Basic Library.” Mr. Spata’s music can now be found on nearly every state’s approved contest lists. His unique musical style and attention to pedagogical needs has made his works favorites among teachers, students and audiences and his music has been performed around the U.S. and the world. Besides music for student musicians, Mr. Spata has composed many other orchestral and chamber works for ensembles of all sizes. He currently lives in Ohio.

For more info visit DougSpata.com