Patricia Valian Reser Artist-in-Residence 2025-26:
Andy Akiho
PRAx Artist in Residence: Composer and Percussionist Andy Akiho
PRAx is proud to present our 2025-26 artist in residence Andy Akiho, a highly acclaimed percussionist, composer and performer.
Akiho is a “trailblazing” (Los Angeles Times) Pulitzer Prize finalist and seven-time Grammy-nominated composer whose bold works unravel intricate and unexpected patterns while challenging the preconceived boundaries of classical music.
A virtuosic steel pannist, Akiho has a deeply physical relationship with composition. Having spent most of his 20s playing steel pan by ear in Trinidad and New York City, Akiho only began writing music at age 28. Since then, he has been commissioned – to take just a few examples — by the New York Philharmonic, National Symphony Orchestra, Shanghai Symphony, and the China Philharmonic. He is the recipient of the Rome Prize and many other awards.
As part of his residency, Akiho will offer three varying performances, including cooperation with Oregon State students. Sign up for our newsletter to stay tuned for any additional engagement opportunities throughout the year!
Performances
Andy Akiho Ensemble
Detrick Hall│Sept. 26, 2025 at 7 p.m.
Come get to know the 2025-26 Patricia Valian Reser Artist-in-Residence in a program featuring his own ensemble. Known for the range of his compositions, including landmark works for orchestras, Andy Akiho launches the season at PRAx on an intimate, adventurous note. The composer himself appears on steel pans and percussion.
Portrait of Akiho
Detrick Hall│Feb. 5, 2026 at 7 p.m.
Experience the power of collaboration across musical generations featuring the dynamic creative output of Patricia Valian Reser Artist-in Residence Andy Akiho. Over the course of the 2025-26 season, composer and percussionist Akiho works with OSU student musicians who will showcase his works in solo performances and ensembles.
Imani Winds x Andy Akiho: BeLoud, BeLoved, BeLonging
Detrick Hall│April 11, 2026 at 7 p.m.
BeLoud, BeLoved, BeLonging is the result of an incredible collaboration between this year’s Patricia Valian Reser Artist-in-Residence, composer and percussionist Andy Akiho, and the Grammy-winning Imani Winds, who are celebrating 25 years of dynamic playing and adventurous programming. Akiho’s powerful work, commissioned by Imani Winds, was inspired by the sounds heard at a Brooklyn detention center. Akiho workshopped the piece with incarcerated young men at Rikers Island.