Exploring New Frontiers: Mara Gibson Releases Album of New Works

BATON ROUGE, LA – The LSU School of Music is thrilled to celebrate the release of Unseen World, the latest portrait album by Dr. Mara Gibson, Associate Professor of Composition. Released in early November, this collaborative album marks a major milestone in Gibson’s celebrated career, highlighting her evolving compositional style and solidifying her position as a leading voice in contemporary music.

Available on all major platforms, including Apple Music, Unseen World is Gibson’s third portrait album and fourth commercially released CD. Featuring performances by LSU alumni, faculty (past and present), and professional ensembles, the album reflects the rich collaborative spirit of the LSU music community. Dr. Olivia Lucas, a member of LSU’s theory faculty also contributed to the project via insightful liner notes that guide listeners through this exceptional collection.

A Journey Through Sound and Vision

Composed between 2020 and 2024, the works on Unseen World demonstrate Gibson’s deep engagement with visual art and nature. Inspired by paintings, lithographs, and natural elements—birds, bees, snow, and even the act of breathing—the album explores the intricate relationship between sound and imagery. This thematic depth underscores the evolution of Gibson’s compositional voice, offering a profoundly immersive experience.

Among the album’s standout pieces are Escher Keys and FightFlight, which blend technical mastery with evocative storytelling.

Escher Keys is a three-movement exploration of intricate patterns and interwoven lines, inspired by the works of Dutch artist M.C. Escher. Funded through an ATLAS grant from the Louisiana Board of Regents, the composition has received critical acclaim for its emotional depth and inventiveness. Recognized by the International Double Reed Society and The American Prize, it was also nominated as a Grammy-eligible composition.

The piece features dynamic contributions from LSU faculty and alumni, exemplifying the extraordinary talent fostered within the School of Music.

Equally compelling is FightFlight, which explores the psychological and emotional responses to fear and conflict. Through intricate textures and rhythmic innovation, Gibson masterfully captures the adrenaline-charged moments of tension and resolution.

A Celebration of Collaboration

Beyond its artistic merits, Unseen World exemplifies the vibrant synergy within the LSU music community. The project brought together alumni, faculty, and professional musicians in a shared effort to bring Gibson’s compositions to life, creating a body of work that is both deeply personal and profoundly communal.

This spirit of collaboration highlights the LSU School of Music’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation. Through this album, Gibson and her collaborators offer a powerful testament to the transformative power of collective artistry.

Where to Listen 

Unseen World is available for streaming on all major platforms, including Apple Music. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Mara Gibson’s work or new to her music, this album offers a captivating introduction to her creative vision.

For more information about LSU’s School of Music, degree programs, and the Composition area of study, visit www.lsu.edu/cmda/music.

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About the LSU School of Music

The LSU School of Music offers one of the nation’s most comprehensive music programs and serves as a cultural arts center for Louisiana. The school boasts an acclaimed faculty, along with a world-renowned network of visiting artists who are innovators in their fields.

About Mara Gibson

Mara Gibson is an internationally recognized composer and educator. As Associate Professor of Composition at LSU, she inspires the next generation of composers to push the boundaries of their craft.

Gibson’s music has been performed globally, earning her acclaim as a fearless innovator. Her compositions, characterized by intricate structures and emotional depth, invite audiences to engage with sound in new and unexpected ways.

To learn more, visit her faculty bio or her personal website.

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