Ahrold, Frank

American composer, pianist, and educator. Graduated from U.C.L.A., studied composition with John Vincent, and Lukas Foss. Active as conductor in Long Beach, Calif. early in his career. Performed with various California symphony orchestras, and was pianist for the Oakland Symphony for 12 years (1973-1985). He had many commissions and earned many awards.

From the description of Frank Ahrold papers, 1949-1992 (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 80600115

Biography

Frank Ahrold, composer, pianist, and teacher, was born in Long Beach, California on December 12, 1931, and died in San Francisco on April 15, 1989. He was a graduate of U.C.L.A. (1953) where his principal teachers in composition were John Vincent and Lukas Foss. Following a year of post-graduate work (1955-56), Ahrold became active in the musical life of Long Beach as a conductor of the Long Beach Civic Chorus, musical director of the Camerata dei Musici, and associate conductor of the Long Beach Civic Light Opera.

Ahrold composed approximately 180 works, including a piano concerto, three piano sonatas, music for ballet, two one-act operas, symphonic works, numerous art songs, and choral works. Some compositions were recorded and released on the CRI label.

Ahrold was an active performer and appeared as soloist with the Long Beach, San Jose, and Oakland Symphonies. He also performed in solo and chamber music recitals, and served as accompanist for many Bay Area artists. From 1973 to 1985, he was the the pianist for the Oakland Symphony Orchestra. In addition to numerous commissions, Ahrold had been honored by awards from A.S.C.A.P.

From the guide to the Frank Ahrold Papers, 1949-1992, (The Music Library)