Photo of Cory Hibbs, Composer

cory hibbs is an American composer…

…performer, and writer. Award-winning composer Tom Benjamin says, “He writes with great freshness and expressive power, as well as lyricism. He shows how sensitive to text he is, and to dramatic shaping.”  Composer Samuel Hedrick describes Dr. Hibbs’ compositions as, “…a unique, highly personal body of work that will be of the greatest value and importance.” 

He has received numerous accolades including awards from ASCAP and the American Composer's Orchestra and served as composer-in-residence for the San Diego Opera. His recent commissions include a choral commission from SACRA/PROFANA, and two orchestral commissions from the SDSU Symphony Orchestra. 

In 2014, Hibbs co-founded CITY Opera, a new opera company in San Diego, dedicated to cutting-edge productions. The San Diego Union-Tribune calls CITY Opera “an inspiration”, “visceral”, and “evocative”. Their inaugural season was a critical success. 

About CITY Opera's production of "Queen of Carthage", Jim Chute of the San Diego Union-Tribune writes, “Their 45-minute reduction of Purcell’s “Dido and Aeneas,” renamed “Queen of Carthage” with a new libretto by Hibbs, was an inspiration… Hibbs kept things moving and the pacing was just about ideal."

"Hibbs and his cast find new colors, energy and subtleties in the songs", Pam Kragen says in her review of CITY Opera's production of "The Andrée Expedition".

An active actor and performer, Dr. Hibbs has appeared in numerous feature films and stage productions in New York City including such classic works as “Henry V”, “Antigone” (Anouilh), “The Heiress”, and “Saint Joan”, as well as a slew of new theatre and film pieces by emerging artists.  As a singer, conductor, and pianist he has performed both classical and modern works through the United States, including New York, Boston, Baltimore, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego.

Dr. Hibbs earned his BMus from San Diego State University in Music Composition and Vocal Performance. After graduating from SDSU he attended the British American Drama Academy studying acting with actors Ben Kingsley and Alan Rickman, and director Deborah Warner. He earned a Master of Music degree in Composition from Boston University, and from the Peabody Conservatory, a second MMus in Music Theory Pedagogy, and a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Composition.  He has studied with composers Christopher Theofanidis, Lukas Foss, David Ward-Steinman, and Samuel Headrick.  

Committed to the education of the next generation of artists, Dr. Hibbs has taught San Diego State University, The Peabody Conservatory, Boston University, and Southwestern College. Hibbs currently resides in Los Angeles.

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Music

Last Year, In New England

3333/4331/4/Timpani/Harp/Strings
Three Movements

Commonwealth Sonata

Piano
One Movement

Here is Peace

SSAATTBB

Prelude for Viola No. 1

Viola and Piano

Te Deum

SATB, SATB Soli, Organ

 In The News

  • Cory Hibbs discusses his latest choral work, "ALL WE NEED: MEDITATIONS ON QUEER BEING," and the "Blanket Fort" installation on Drew Schlosberg's Spotlight on the Community podcast. Hear how Cory explores safe spaces for marginalized communities. Click the link to listen to the full podcast episode and learn more about Cory's inspiring projects. Listen here.

  • Cory Hibbs' new choral work, "ALL WE NEED: MEDITATIONS ON QUEER BEING," is highlighted in Broadway World. This feature covers the world premiere by SACRA/PROFANA, celebrating National Pride Month with a concert focused on belonging and safe spaces for marginalized communities. Click the link to read the full article and learn more about Cory's inspiring work. Read the story here.

  • Cory Hibbs' latest work is highlighted in the San Diego Union-Tribune's Spring Arts Preview. His choral piece, "ALL WE NEED: MEDITATIONS ON QUEER BEING," is among the top 10 classical music picks for the season. Click the link to read the full article and learn more about Cory's contributions to the arts. Read the story here.

  • The San Diego Union-Tribune highlights the success of San Diego City Opera's inaugural production, "Queen of Carthage," co-founded by Cory Hibbs. Despite numerous challenges, the performance captivated audiences with its timeless music and inspiring libretto by Hibbs. Click the link to read the full story and discover how Cory and the team brought this masterpiece to life. Read the story

  • The San Diego Union-Tribune reviews City Opera's second production, "The Andrée Expedition," co-founded and musically directed by Cory Hibbs. This haunting opera, based on the 1897 polar tragedy, impresses with powerful performances and evocative direction. Click the link to read the full review and learn how City Opera brings this historical expedition to life. Read the story

  • KPBS highlights the launch of San Diego's new City Opera, co-founded by Cory Hibbs. Learn about this exciting addition to the cultural scene. Click the link to read the full article. Read the story

  • Minuteman Press highlights the formation of San Diego's second opera company, led by Cory Hibbs. Learn more about this significant cultural development. Click the link to read the full article. Read the story

  • Voice of San Diego covers Cory Hibbs' efforts in establishing a new opera company in town. Discover the details of this cultural initiative. Click the link to read the full article. Read the story

  • Item descriptionHuffPost features Cory Hibbs and his role in forming the San Diego City Opera. Discover how Cory is revolutionizing the local opera scene. Click the link to read the full article. Read the story

  • The San Diego Reader features Cory Hibbs' role in founding City Opera. Learn why one opera company isn't enough for San Diego. Click the link to read the full story. Read the story

  • Variety highlights Cory's work in the acclaimed film "English Vinglish." Learn how Cory's contributions added depth to this beloved movie. Click the link to read the full article. Read the story

  • The Hollywood Reporter features Cory Hibbs in their review of "English Vinglish." Find out more about Cory's impactful work on this film. Click the link to read the full review. Read the story

  • Digital Spy discusses Cory Hibbs' teaching role in the film "English Vinglish," praising his work alongside Sridevi. Click the link to read the full article. Read the story

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