A selection of recent commissions & orchestral performances
Performed by the Black Diaspora Symphony Orchestra (BDSO) with Maestro Dayvin Hallmon in 2026.
Inspired by my friend, who encouraged me to explore the legacy of Bayard Rustin,"EXODUS FROM EXTINCTION" reflects Rustin’s courage, commitment to unity, and pursuit of justice while honoring those who create meaningful change through vision, perseverance, and compassion.
Performed by the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra (WCO) with Maestro Andrew Sewell, included on the album, “ENDEAVOR”, on Albany Records.
“MENTAL HEALTH SUITE” explores the experiences of acquired mental illness through four connected movements. “The Origin Story” represents trauma, “The Persistent Past” reflects depression, “The Fearful Future” captures the restless energy of anxiety, and “As If Nothing Happened” explores the act of masking symptoms. This work honors the challenges of mental health while celebrating resilience, healing, and hope. Even through difficult moments, there is light to be found, and this piece encourages listeners to discover their own.
Performed by the Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies (GTCYS) with Maestra Tamara Gonzalez.
"FRESHWATER PIRATES" was commissioned by Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies for Concertino East and Concertino West directed by Tamara Gonzalez and Dan Mollick, in St. Paul, Minnesota. Set sail on a musical adventure inspired by the Land of 10,000 Lakes and the imagination of children who dream of pirates, exploration, and hidden treasures. This piece celebrates the freshwater wonders that surround Minnesota while honoring the young water protectors who help keep our lakes clean and thriving.
Performed by the Concord Chamber Orchestra with Maestro Jamin Hoffman.
“THE LEAPING WHITETAIL OVERTURE” was commissioned by the Concord Chamber Orchestra with Maestro Jamin Hoffman to commemorate its 50th Anniversary, spanning from 1976 to 2026, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The white-tailed deer is Wisconsin’s official state wildlife animal. The music composition mimics the spirited deer, known for leaping and gliding across the prairies of the Great Lakes.
Performed by the National Teachers Orchestra with Maestra Kira Omelchenko.
“RUSHING OUT OF TIME” was commissioned by The New Canon Project, a partnership between the American Choral Directors Association, the American String Teachers Association and Rising Tide Music & Arts. It was inspired by students who experience a busy day filled with activities such as sports, dance, jobs, or making it to class before the bell rings! Col legno bowing technique and the optional woodblock mimic a ticking clock as background noise to the minor scales and syncopated rhythms.
Performed by the Black Diaspora Symphony Orchestra (BDSO) with Maestro Dayvin Hallmon, filmed by Marquise Mays.
Frequently when tragedy affects the Black community, we don't get a chance to process that grief. “CRIES FROM OUR SOIL” is a collaborative work by Autumn Maria Reed, Brit Nicole, Michaela Usher, and Lee Stovall that is designed to provide a space for that healing. Additionally, visual artist Brooklyn Lloyd Dixon created a painting that complements the musical composition.
Performed by the River Oaks Chamber Orchestra (ROCO) with Maestra Mei-Ann Chen.
The two-movement edition of “MENTAL HEALTH SUITE” includes “The Persistent Past” which explores depression, and “The Fearful Future” which examines anxiety. Like the four-movement work, this edition honors the challenges of mental health while celebrating resilience, healing, and hope. Even through difficult moments, there is light to be found, and this piece encourages listeners to discover their own.
Performed by Orquestra Sinfônica Teatro Nacional Claudio Santoro (OSTNCS) with Maestro Cláudio Cohen.
“RESILIENCE” explores the journey through trauma, coping, and recovery. With lively rhythms and a jocular spirit, the piece reflects the balance between struggle, perseverance, and optimism.
Performed by Calypsus Brass.
“A BEACON OF HOPE” reflects the uncertainty and challenges of the pandemic, from isolation and shortages to hardship and loss. Despite these struggles, the piece highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the hope found beyond difficult times.
Performed by Maynie Bradley, Elspeth Talents-Clouse, Shannon Farley, Hannah Kasun at LunART Festival.
“YANKADI” explores the vibrant ostinato rhythms of West Africa, inspired by the traditional Yankadi rhythm of Guinea. The piece adapts this rhythmic figure, originally used in courtship gatherings, for string quartet.
The iconic jazz composition,“GIANT STEPS”, by John Coltrane is reimagined as a hip-hop fusion with elements from Ronnie Foster and A Tribe Called Quest.
Bespoke musical enchantment for every genre; orchestra, film, TV, theater, even country. Utilizing Sibelius® & NotePerformer® to deliver authentic, high-fidelity orchestral demos.
From intimate jazz combos to full symphonic ensembles. Transforming existing works with a signature blend of passion & precision.
Professional recording & production primarily in Studio One®. Seamless collaboration for vocalists & instrumentalists worldwide.
.WAV &
.MIDI
file exchanges.
Autumn Maria Reed is currently accepting new commissions for ensembles, film, television, & stage. Let's create something extraordinary!
Now Accepting NEW Commissions for Film, TV, and Beyond!
Dive into a world of bespoke musical enchantment with Autumn, your go-to composer for every genre, including the heartwarming notes of country!
What Sets Autumn Apart:
Melodies that resonate with your narrative
Lyrics that breathe life into your vision
Crafted with Precision:
Autumn utilizes Sibelius® and NotePerformer® to orchestrate seamless and authentic demos, bringing your imagination to life in every note.
From Intimate Ensembles to Grand Symphonies – She Arranges It All!
What She Offers:
Tailored arrangements for small bands, symphonic ensembles, and everything in between
Autumn's unique touch, blending diverse musical sounds with precision and passion
Autumn's Artistry:
Did you know that her first love is orchestrating and arranging existing songs? Dive into a world where musical imagination knows no bounds!
Multi-Instrumental Maestro:
Autumn's proficiency spans piano, bass, ukulele, guitar, drums, violin, and more. A symphony of instruments at her fingertips to bring your arrangements to life!
Collaborate with Instrumentalists and Vocalists – Your Vision, Her Production!
What She Offers:
Seamless collaboration with both instrumentalists and vocalists
Autumn's expertise in producing and recording, crafting a sonic journey tailored to your vision
Studio One® Magic:
Autumn breathes life into your music in her home studio, powered by Studio One®. Past experiences with Sonar® and Cubase® showcase a versatile production journey.
Collaborative Simplicity:
Exchange .WAV and .MIDI files effortlessly, making the collaboration process smooth and efficient.
