Daniel James Chan (b. 1982) was born in Puebla, Mexico and raised in El Paso, Texas. His first exposure to music was hearing his grandfather sing and play guitar. Further musical interest came at the age of twelve after viewing several "Evening at the Pops" broadcasts on public television, and from the influence of educators. Mr. Chan began trumpet and piano studies, enrolled in the wind band, later performing in symphony and jazz orchestras, wind symphony, jazz bands, solo and ensemble competitions, choir, and music theater. Interest in composition, music theory, and conducting soon followed.
While at the University of North Texas (BM 2004), Mr. Chan studied with Cindy McTee and Alan Oldfield. He composed for various ensembles and musicians throughout the College of Music, as well as for regional groups. He attended Southern Methodist University for graduate study in composition and conducting (MM 2007). Recently, Mr. Chan graduated the Scoring for Motion Pictures and Television graduate program at the University of Southern California.
Mr. Chan's "Generations: Concerto for Violin & Orchestra" received Special Distinction in the 2008 ASCAP Rudolf Nissim competition. The recording features the Hollywood Studio Symphony with Roger Wilkie as soloist. Mr. Chan conducted the session at the Warner Bros. Clint Eastwood Scoring Stage in Los Angeles.
In 2006, Mr. Chan was one of five admitted to the Aspen Music Festival and School Film Scoring Workshop where he worked with John Corigliano, Jeff Rona, and Jack Smalley.
In 2005, Mr. Chan was a finalist in the Sixth Annual Turner Classic Movies Young Film Composers Competition, placing fifth out of over five hundred entries with judging headed by noted film composer Hans Zimmer.
Composed works include several for symphony orchestra, wind ensemble, brass choir, string orchestra, choir a cappella, solo 'cello, and electro-acoustic music. He has scored several independent films and a documentary. Recent commissions include pieces for concert band, youth symphony, a clarinet sonata, and marching band.