Born in Wausau, Wisconsin, Gloria Coates began composing at an early age, winning a national composition contest at the age of twelve. After earning a Masters of Music degree in composition she continued postgraduate studies in composition at Columbia University. She has been the recipient of many awards, commissions and distinctions. The music of Gloria Coates has been performed by leading soloists and ensembles, winning her an unrivalled reputation. Music on Open Strings (Symphony No.1), written in 1973, was first performed at the Warsaw Autumn of 1978 and proved to be the most widely discussed work in the Festival; her music has subsequently been heard at the Dresden Festival, New Music America 1989, Musica Viva Munich, the Passau International...