Mary Watkins is an eclectic composer as well as a pianist, arranger, recording artist, and record producer. Her music reflects many styles – jazz, gospel, country, rock, classical and pop. She has composed for solo piano for both adults and children; for wind ensembles, string quartet, chamber, and full symphony orchestra; and for theater, dance, and film. She’s composed songs for solo vocalist, vocal ensemble, and large chorus and has completed two operas: “Queen Clara,” (Lance Belville librettist) and “Dark River.” While continuing to compose, Mary performs both solo piano and as part of ensemble. She conducts improvisation workshops, teaches piano and music theory privately in Oakland, CA.
Mary has been commissioned to write a symphony piece for Women in the Arts, Inc., producers of the National Women’s Music Festival. Nan Washburn will conduct the NWMF orchestra’s performance at the festival.