About Demetrius
Demetrius Spaneas has led a dynamic life as international award-winning composer, public speaker, conductor, performer, world traveler, cultural diplomat, college professor, consultant, and business owner.
Award winning composer and performer Demetrius Spaneas has traveled the world as a musical ambassador, connecting classical, jazz, and traditional music throughout the US, Eastern Europe, and Asia to create international dialogue through artistic collaboration. He has been featured soloist and composer at major concert venues and international festivals in the three continents.
Composing
As a composer, his music has been performed to critical acclaim throughout the U.S., Europe, and Asia. His work ranges from two operas, to symphonic and chamber works, to choral and vocal music, to film and television, and for clients such as HBO, the NFL, and the MLB Fan Cave in NYC. He has received numerous awards and grants from ASCAP, Meet the Composer, The American Music Center, and many other institutions.
Speaking
A dynamic and sought-after speaker, Mr. Spaneas has given talks on topics ranging from music composition, to American history and culture, to business and marketing, to the creative process for artists and non-artists alike. He has spoken throughout the U.S., Europe, the former U.S.S.R., and China. He is a Fulbright Scholar Specialist in American Studies.
Performing
As a saxophonist, he has shared the stage with many of the great artists in American history, such as Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Dionne Warwick, Three Dog Night, the Funk Brothers, Natalie Merchant, and many others. As a classical soloist, he has been a champion of new American music, premiering dozens of works written expressly for him.
Diplomacy
As a ‘cultural diplomat’, he has partnered with organizations such as the U.S. Embassy system, UNESCO, the Fulbright Commission, and various international academic and cultural institutions to promote American culture abroad, and to connect artists from varied cultures and countries. Through this work, he has received many accolades, including a special certificate from the Russian Duma (Senate) for “enriching the cultural life of St. Petersburg”.
