Chase

McCay

Composer, Arranger, Engraver, Conductor, and Trumpeter

Browse Music

“…shows a strong command of the wind ensemble… a deep understanding in traditional wind band writing, as well as a fresh, new sound.”

Chase McCay (b. 2003) is an award-winning composer, conductor, and music engraver from Austin, Texas. Deeply influenced by the expressive language of film music, his works explore the emotional depth of the human experience, with emphasis on history and the natural world. Chase was the first college freshman to be premiered with The University of Texas Symphony Orchestra and his music has been commended by respected conductors such as Farkhad Khudyev, who describes his work as “beautiful, honest, and alive.”

Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Composition at The University of Texas at Austin, Chase has studied with renowned professors such as Donald Grantham, Alyssa Weinberg, Russell Podgorsek, Yevgeniy Sharlat, and Omar Thomas. In addition, Chase is also an accomplished music engraver, whose skills have enabled several high-profile performances at the Butler School of Music, representing distinguished composers. Chase is a five-year member of The University of Texas Longhorn Band.

Full Bio

Testimonials

  • “Chase McCay is quickly establishing himself as a fresh new voice in the wind band repertoire. His craftsmanship, orchestration, and professionalism show maturity beyond his years. His music is ambitious yet achievable and thrilling for an ensemble to perform. The quality of his music is evident in the numerous accolades he has already accumulated, but it's his quality as a human that makes him so special. Chase takes great care of every detail in his projects and is a joy to work with in any capacity, whether you are simply purchasing a piece or having him guest conduct.”

    CHERYL LEE

    M.M. Conducting — University of Kansas

  • “I've had the pleasure of knowing Chase personally and professionally for the last four years and he has shown a strong commitment to excellence in all aspects of his work. From collaborating with other musicians to his music itself, he is incredibly professional and highly skilled. His work, Verdant Anthology, shows a strong command of the wind ensemble that demonstrates a deep understanding in traditional wind band writing, as well as a fresh, new sound. I cannot recommend Chase enough as an artist, both professionally and personally.”

    KEVIN CHAROENSRI

    B.M. Composition — The University of Texas

  • “From the first time I met Chase, I was immediately struck by the quality of his music and its visual presentation. His beautiful, polished scores set up performers for success in the concert hall. His melodies are tuneful and memorable, and he understands how to develop themes in a satisfying way. Using the full range of instrumental techniques at his disposal, he writes emotional and exciting music that is deeply personal. Anyone would be extremely lucky to work with Chase.”

    AUSTIN ALI

    M.A. Composition — University of California, Los Angeles

  • “Chase McCay is a wonderful young composer whose music is beautiful, honest, and alive.”

    FARKHAD KHUDYEV

    Director of Orchestras — The University of Texas at Austin

    B.M. — Oberlin Conservatory

    M.M. Orchestral Conducting — Yale University

Noteworthy Recordings

Euphoric Dawn (2021)

The University of Texas Symphony Orchestra

Songs of Bulgaria (2024)

for Wind Ensemble - MIDI

University of Kansas Wind Ensemble

Heart Lake (2022)

Westward, Pointed Up (2023)

for Symphony Orchestra - MIDI

Songs of Bulgaria

Chase’s newly composed work for band, Songs of Bulgaria, is a beautiful celebration of Bulgarian culture—comprised of unique interpretations of three traditional Bulgarian folk songs, the work captures the stark sonorities and powerful harmony of the Balkans in the context of a symphonic wind ensemble.

Upcoming Events

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Social Media

When describing my professional skills, I often use three words: composer, conductor, and engraver. The first two terms are pretty self-explanatory—but I often get questions about what “engraver” really means. In short, music engr
When describing my professional skills, I often use three words: composer, conductor, and engraver. The first two terms are pretty self-explanatory—but I often get questions about what “engraver” really means. In short, music engraving is the process of digitally formatting and editing scores and parts for ensembles to rehearse and perform. Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of engraving music for a variety of composers and ensemble types—but my most recent project was one of the truly special ones. “Bum’s Rush” is a 1994 work by renowned composer Donald Grantham, with whom I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating on numerous projects. A landmark in the wind band repertoire, “Bum’s Rush” won the 1995 National Band Association’s William D. Revelli Memorial Composition Contest and continues to be widely performed. Nearly 31 years after its premiere, I had the honor of preparing a fully re-engraved digital edition of the score and parts, working from Dr. Grantham’s original handwritten manuscript. The pictures above highlight some sections of the piece, with the manuscript version on the left, and the new version on the right. It’s a joy to help make important works like this accessible for today’s performers while honoring their original artistry. If you have any music you would like engraved, please don’t hesitate to send me a DM, or submit an interest form under the “services” tab on my website! #composer #musicengraving #newmusic #band #orchestra #windensemble #music #donaldgrantham #bumsrush #trombone #trumpet #clarinet #oboe #flute #bassoon #horn #percussion
A warm sunrise breaking through the dark… Euphoric Dawn (2021) Performed by The University of Texas Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Gabriela Mora Fallas (May 2nd, 2022) #orchestra #newmusic #composer #symphony #brass #woodwinds #music #concert #conductor #oboe #violin #viola #cello
Last Saturday was a dream come true in Bates Recital Hall. In collaboration with my friend, Tanner Walterman, we organized an entire wind ensemble to premiere six works for our senior composition recital. I cannot convey my gratitude enough to the pl
Last Saturday was a dream come true in Bates Recital Hall. In collaboration with my friend, Tanner Walterman, we organized an entire wind ensemble to premiere six works for our senior composition recital. I cannot convey my gratitude enough to the players, conductors, and everyone who came to the concert. In a busy spring semester, these people made time to show up and help make wonderful music. I want to personally thank our fantastic conductors, @tjanderson00 and @tlehrlich, as well as the two soloists on “Songs of Bulgaria”: @maryccreel (English horn), and @rachelmarquez_music (oboe). These musicians brought so much emotion and life to my music—without them, my work would only be ideas on paper. I also want to thank my amazing composition mentors: Donald Grantham, Alyssa Weinberg, Russell Podgorsek, Omar Thomas, and Yevgeniy Sharlat have shaped the composer I am today in all the best ways. I also can’t forget my friend and colleague, @tannerwaltermancomposer, who always keeps me on my toes with his amazing music. It was a true pleasure to share a recital with him. Last but certainly not least—I want to thank my family, and my wonderful partner, @themeurer_1456. They showed me extraordinary patience and support these last few months as I pulled this recital together. To everyone who had a piece in making our recital happen, big or small, thank you for helping our dreams become a reality. Recordings coming soon! 🎶 #windensemble #newmusic #recital #seniorrecital #band #composer #conductor #worldpremiere
In just 30 days, join us for the culmination of four years of composition at The University of Texas—a thrilling premiere of six wind ensemble works by Tanner Walterman and Chase McCay Conductors: T.J. Anderson and Dr. Tyler Ehrlich Featuring
In just 30 days, join us for the culmination of four years of composition at The University of Texas—a thrilling premiere of six wind ensemble works by Tanner Walterman and Chase McCay Conductors: T.J. Anderson and Dr. Tyler Ehrlich Featuring the musicians of the Butler School of Music Free Admission 🎫 Program: Chaos Agent (2025) - Walterman Everlasting (2024) - Walterman Songs of Bulgaria (2024) - McCay ~INTERMISSION~ Iris of the Earth (2022) - McCay September (2025) - Walterman A Dance Through Doubt (2023) - Walterman
Always a good day for some brass highlights! 🎺 #newmusic #composer #songsofbulgaria #band #windensemble #bulgarianmusic #music #brass #trumpet #trombone
The University of Texas Concert Band had a wonderful performance of “Svatba!” last Sunday, with fantastic conducting by Dr. Tyler Ehrlich. The multicam recording is up on YouTube now! LINK IN BIO 🔗 #concertband #newmusic #windensemble
The University of Texas Concert Band had a wonderful performance of “Svatba!” last Sunday, with fantastic conducting by Dr. Tyler Ehrlich. The multicam recording is up on YouTube now! LINK IN BIO 🔗 #concertband #newmusic #windensemble #songsofbulgaria #bulgarianmusic #classicalmusic #texasbands #composer #band
Next stop for “Svatba!”… Bates Recital Hall at The University of Texas. Conducted by the wonderfully talented Tyler Ehrlich (@tlehrlich). It’s a great honor to share the program with two phenomenal composers. Join us if you c
Next stop for “Svatba!”… Bates Recital Hall at The University of Texas. Conducted by the wonderfully talented Tyler Ehrlich (@tlehrlich). It’s a great honor to share the program with two phenomenal composers. Join us if you can to show support for the amazing musicians of the UT Longhorn Band! Concert Details: Sunday, February 23, 2025 — 4:00-6:00pm Free Admission
NEW RELEASE ALERT: Songs of Bulgaria (2024) 🇧🇬 Wind Ensemble • Grade VI • 15:00 Available to stream on YouTube & SoundCloud (MIDI) OR for purchase @ www.chasemccay.com LINK IN BIO 🔗
NEW RELEASE ALERT: Songs of Bulgaria (2024) 🇧🇬 Wind Ensemble • Grade VI • 15:00 Available to stream on YouTube & SoundCloud (MIDI) OR for purchase @ www.chasemccay.com LINK IN BIO 🔗
I had a wonderful time with the ACC Wind Ensemble last night for the world premiere (and encore) of my piece, “Svatba!” I am honored to have been able to work with so many great musicians, who showed me just how much the teaching proces
I had a wonderful time with the ACC Wind Ensemble last night for the world premiere (and encore) of my piece, “Svatba!” I am honored to have been able to work with so many great musicians, who showed me just how much the teaching process goes both ways. Thank you to Dr. Albert Lo for programming this piece and inviting me to visit, as well as everyone who came to the concert last night. Your support means a great deal to me, and I am excited to see this piece brought to life at more concerts in the future! #composer #newmusic #windensemble #concertband #band #musicmajor #songsofbulgaria #bulgarianmusic #classicalmusic #concert #texasbands
I’m excited to announce the world premiere of my piece, “Svatba!”, which will be performed by the ACC Wind Ensemble on April 18th, 2024 at 7:30pm. Hope to see you a week from today in the ACC music recital hall! Admission is free.
I’m excited to announce the world premiere of my piece, “Svatba!”, which will be performed by the ACC Wind Ensemble on April 18th, 2024 at 7:30pm. Hope to see you a week from today in the ACC music recital hall! Admission is free.
When describing my professional skills, I often use three words: composer, conductor, and engraver. The first two terms are pretty self-explanatory—but I often get questions about what “engraver” really means. In short, music engr
A warm sunrise breaking through the dark… Euphoric Dawn (2021) Performed by The University of Texas Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Gabriela Mora Fallas (May 2nd, 2022) #orchestra #newmusic #composer #symphony #brass #woodwinds #m
Last Saturday was a dream come true in Bates Recital Hall. In collaboration with my friend, Tanner Walterman, we organized an entire wind ensemble to premiere six works for our senior composition recital. I cannot convey my gratitude enough to the pl In just 30 days, join us for the culmination of four years of composition at The University of Texas—a thrilling premiere of six wind ensemble works by Tanner Walterman and Chase McCay Conductors: T.J. Anderson and Dr. Tyler Ehrlich Featuring
Always a good day for some brass highlights! 🎺 #newmusic #composer #songsofbulgaria #band #windensemble #bulgarianmusic #music #brass #trumpet #trombone
The University of Texas Concert Band had a wonderful performance of “Svatba!” last Sunday, with fantastic conducting by Dr. Tyler Ehrlich. The multicam recording is up on YouTube now! LINK IN BIO 🔗 #concertband #newmusic #windensemble Next stop for “Svatba!”… Bates Recital Hall at The University of Texas. Conducted by the wonderfully talented Tyler Ehrlich (@tlehrlich). It’s a great honor to share the program with two phenomenal composers. Join us if you c NEW RELEASE ALERT: Songs of Bulgaria (2024) 🇧🇬 Wind Ensemble • Grade VI • 15:00 Available to stream on YouTube & SoundCloud (MIDI) OR for purchase @ www.chasemccay.com LINK IN BIO 🔗 I had a wonderful time with the ACC Wind Ensemble last night for the world premiere (and encore) of my piece, “Svatba!” I am honored to have been able to work with so many great musicians, who showed me just how much the teaching proces I’m excited to announce the world premiere of my piece, “Svatba!”, which will be performed by the ACC Wind Ensemble on April 18th, 2024 at 7:30pm. Hope to see you a week from today in the ACC music recital hall! Admission is free.