Susanna Hancock (b. 1992) composes music shaped by the tension between the organic and the algorithmic, exploring color, process, and acoustic phenomena. Often inspired by the natural world, her work traces inner and outer landscapes through influences such as minimalism, spectralism, math rock, and electronica to create sound worlds with both atmosphere and architecture.

Her music has drawn attention for the clarity and intensity of its musical language, shaped by stark contrasts and gradual transformation, with a special sensitivity to rhythm and timbre. Described as “arresting” (Cleveland Classical) and “unlocking a kind of religious ecstasy” (National Sawdust Log), her work is frequently programmed throughout the United States and has been presented on four continents.

Susanna’s work has been performed by musicians including the United States Army Band (“Pershing’s Own”), wildUp, Metropolis Ensemble, Matchstick Percussion, ~Nois Saxophone Quartet, Unheard-of Ensemble, cellist Nick Photinos, and members of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, and St. Louis Symphony. She has received recognition from organizations including ASCAP, the Foundation for Contemporary Arts, The Johnstone Fund, and United States Artists, and her work has been featured at international festivals and events including the LA Phil’s Noon to Midnight Festival, Ear Taxi Festival, and the Bang on a Can Marathon.

Susanna holds a Master of Music in Theory & Composition degree from New York University and Bachelor of Music in Acoustic & Electronic Composition and Bassoon Performance degrees from the University of South Florida. Her primary teachers include Julia Wolfe, Michael Gordon, and Baljinder Sekhon.

She currently lives in Cincinnati with her husband, composer and new-music broadcaster Tyler Kline, and their cat Tofu. Outside of music, she is a practicing ceramicist, avid plant person, and perpetually curious about new foods and places.

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