Never Too Late: A Composer's Journey
Judith Pauley Markovich’s music embraces her transformative journey from professional clarinetist to sought-out composer. Markovich’s story serves as a testament to the timeless truth that it is never too late to pursue one’s passions.
When not composing or writing on her novel series, you will most often find her on FaceTime with her three sons/grandkids, digging in the dirt in a flannel shirt, drinking dandelion coffee over a Sudoku, or cracking a great joke.
Alysha Hinton Nesbitt, Nashville Opera Young Artist Premiere: I Think About the Star
Masterful Performer
Renowned for her exquisite sound and insightful musicianship, Judith Pauley Markovich graduated with honors from The Juilliard School with a Master’s degree in performance.
Her clarinet performances have graced prestigious stages worldwide, including Carnegie Recital Hall, captivating audiences and inspiring composers like Alec Wilder, Allan Blank, and more.
With accolades from esteemed figures like Leon Russianoff and Franklin Cohen, Markovich’s career as a performer is marked by unparalleled excellence, even soloing Morton Gould’s jazzy “Derivations” at his request.
Dedicated Educator
A passionate advocate for music education, Judith Markovich has dedicated herself to nurturing the next generation of musicians.
Building a public school band/orchestra program from 13 to 154, she created a statewide jazz band for teens. Her passion for music equalled her passion for kids.
She was Leon Russianoff”s teaching assistant and served as clarinet faculty at Akron University, Markovich’s teaching journey has been rich and varied, producing award-winners, university teachers, and amateurs who simply enjoy playing.
Her commitment to innovation and her ability to inspire students have earned her praise from clinicians, director Richard Killough of Lincoln Center Student Programs., and Robert Levy of Tidewater Music Festival.
Inspired Composer
Markovich’s short journey as a composer is as remarkable as it is inspiring. During a pause in her performance career due to illness, she discovered a new purpose: music composition. Markovich embarked on a creative journey that has led to numerous premieres and international recognition. Her compositions, ranging from orchestral works to chamber music, have been celebrated for their depth, spirituality, and innovation.
Not given to trends and catch words, if they fit what she is inspired by, so be it. She loves the use of electronics but doesn’t avoid a beautiful melody.
For Markovich, it’s not as much about how well you play as it is about why. What do you want to say to empower and comfort others?
Musical Visionary
Markovich’s prophetic compositions transcend traditional boundaries, bridging classical mastery with innovative flair. Her works, often imbued with profound universal messages, reflect her deep spiritual and humanitarian convictions.
From her deeply personal “Remember” to upcoming projects like “Lost Daughters,” “Ode to Jerusalem,” and “The Soul Felt Its Worth,” Markovich continues to push the boundaries of classical music, creating immersive soundscapes that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Community Advocate
Beyond the stage and the studio, Markovich is a dedicated advocate for her community. Through her ministry in the arts, she uses music as a tool for serving those in need while empowering others to do the same.
Whether housing those in need or supporting addiction survivors, her commitment to fostering purpose, value, and creativity in artists extends Markovich’s impact far beyond the realm of music, embodying the transformative power of compassion.
Read her tearful tribute during the 2023 Women’s History Month.
Markovich works alongside others to fill grocery bags with food and supplies for the needy at Thanksgiving.
Premieres and Projects: 2024-2025
2024-2025 brings an exciting lineup of world premieres and recordings featuring Markovich’s compositions. From the stirring melodies of “Cornerstone Concerto for Viola and Orchestra” to the poignant narrative of “Oh, my son…,” Markovich’s works promise to captivate audiences worldwide. With renowned musicians like Sergio Puccini, Rachel Talitman, Pierre Henri Xuereb, Franklin Cohen, and Charles Neidich, who bring her compositions to life, these premieres mark significant milestones in Markovich’s illustrious career as a composer.
Discover The Listening Room
Step into the captivating world of Judith Markovich’s music and immerse yourself in timeless elegance and innovative creations.
- Experience Markovich’s artistry in its purest form, straight from her heart to yours.
- Explore her diverse catalogue of compositions from orchestral to intimate chamber music.
From the solemn beauty of “Remember” to the dynamic energy of “Ice & Fury: A Passacaglia,” each piece showcases Markovich’s budding compositional talent and visionary artistry.
Commission Your Own Piece
Commission your very own, custom composition. Build a consortium to fund it. Learn more.
Should I Start Something Brand New at 65?
At 65, Markovich had no 40-year history of composing, no long list of awards, Pulitzers, and no impressive training with legendary mentors.
As a matter of fact, she didn’t even know she could compose.
However, with unwavering determination and a hard push up through stereotypes of age and gender, Markovich embraced composition as a senior, guided by the wisdom and knowledge of mentors David Moser McKay and Joan Tower.
Her transparent narrative and success encourage others to invest in themselves and their creative gifts, no matter their age or circumstances.
Markovich is also a passionate teacher, author, and founder of a Christian non-profit that heals, envisions, and empowers artists to serve the poor.
Born and raised in the mountains of Kingsport, TN, her music training was in a marching band, not an orchestra or conservatory. But she has pushed through seemingly immovable stereotypes and exclusions to now reside in Spring Hill as an emerging composer and author with her husband, Richard.
