Posted by Jed Feuer’s life, born in Los Angeles and shaped in the dynamic atmosphere of New York City from just five weeks old, reflects creative pursuits and musical exploration. Raised in a family immersed in the arts, his early exposure to music laid the foundation for a journey spanning Broadway, concert halls, and the diverse realms of jazz.
Feuer’s formal musical education commenced with trumpet lessons under the guidance of the legendary Joe Wilder, followed by mentorship from Carmine Caruso, refining his skills and instilling a lifelong commitment to the art of music. Piano studies with Milton Kaye and Eugene Istomin further expanded his musical horizons, probing into the intricacies of harmony, theory, and counterpoint.
While the 1970s saw Feuer focused on piano performance, his passion for sculpture momentarily took precedence over composition. However, in 1982, the curtains lifted on his first Off-Broadway musical, marking a turning point. This debut paved the way for a prolific period, with Feuer contributing scores to theatre, film, and television.
In the mid-1990s, Feuer’s artistic compass shifted towards concert music, marked by the composition of “Fugue in b minor for chorus & percussion.” This began the onset of a new chapter, with the “Orchestral Suite” premiering in 2003 alongside four other Feuer compositions at Merkin Concert Hall. Presently, he continues to craft intricate chamber works, with “Interruptions for alto sax, cello & trumpet” set for an eagerly anticipated premiere.
A key moment in Feuer’s career took place in 2005 with the establishment of BIPOLAR, a jazz quintet featuring a talented ensemble: Craig Swanson on piano, Stephanie Long on alto sax and flute, David Ostrem on bass, Barbara Merjan on drums, and himself on trumpet and flugelhorn. BIPOLAR released the acclaimed album “Euphrates, Me Jane”.
Beyond the confines of the music world, Jed Feuer’s compassion extends to animal welfare issues. A cause he has supported since childhood. His commitment is reflected in the composition of music for documentaries produced by The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). A long-standing association with HSUS culminated in Feuer organizing and participating in the first annual benefit for the ASPCA at Gotham in New York City on July 27, 2010.
Feuer’s creative pursuit also found expression in the theatrical realm with productions of his musical, “Slaughterhouse-Five,” featuring lyrics by Adele Ahronheim. Based on Kurt Vonnegut’s iconic novel, the musical received acclaim for its interpretation on the stages of the University of Miami in April 2014 and the Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center in June 2015.
The orchestral sphere witnessed Feuer’s work with the performance of his composition “Harambe” by Rachael Worby and the MUSE/IQUE Symphony in August 2017. Named after the gorilla tragically killed in the Cincinnati Zoo, this powerful piece resonated with audiences for its emotional depth and evocative storytelling. On February 10, 2019, Rachael Worby again conducted Feuer’s orchestral work, this time with the Westchester Philharmonic.
Feuer’s latest composition, “4 a.m.,” blends the worlds of jazz and symphony. Rachael Worby once again took the baton to conduct this mesmerizing piece with the Westchester Philharmonic on December 8, 2019. A recording of “4 a.m.” has recently been completed.
From the intimate stages of Off-Broadway to the grandeur of concert halls and the improvisational realms of jazz, Feuer’s contributions to the world of music continue to inspire audiences worldwide. As a composer, instrumentalist, and advocate for animal welfare, Jed Feuer has carved a niche for himself, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary music.