Karl Whelan

Karl D. A. Whelan, originally from Wigan, UK, is a composer and arranger renowned for his emotionally charged, darkly lyrical works for brass and wind ensembles. His compositions are characterised by rich harmonic textures, intricate detail, and a distinctive atmosphere that resonates with both performers and audiences alike.

Karl discovered his passion for music at the age of four, learning the piano under the guidance of his grandmother. At the age of ten, a friend invited him to join a local brass band, where he explored various brass instruments, from the cornet to the baritone. Ultimately, he chose the euphonium, an instrument he continues to play to this day.

In 2003, Karl attended the University of Salford, studying composition and arranging under the mentorship of Professor Peter Graham. After graduating, he began composing and arranging music for brass and wind
bands, gaining recognition for his original style.

In 2019, Karl won the Wind Band Association’s Twentieth Anniversary Composition Award for his work 'Vicennial Celebration'. In addition, he was a semi-finalist in Grimethorpe Colliery Band Composition Competition (2023) with his piece 'Whodunnit', and a finalist in the BrookWright International Brass
Ensemble Composition Competition (2021) with his work 'The Elusive Hedgehog'.

Karl returned to the University of Salford in 2020 to pursue a master’s degree in composition, graduating with distinction in 2023. This period of study allowed him to refine his compositional voice further, adding complexity and emotional depth to his works.