Abstract
In an interview conducted in February of 2008 by the author, Ken Metz speaks about his experiences as a composer-professor. Topics addressed in the interview include Metz’ development as a composer, his compositional language, his approach to teaching music theory and composition, and the state of contemporary art composition.
An analysis of Metz’ song cycle Songs from Mother Goose follows the interview,
with an exploration of Mother Goose Rhymes as an art song text and a movement-by-movement discussion of the work. The wide variety of compositional techniques found in
the work, along with the incorporation of folk styles, speak to Metz’ diverse language as an art composer. Conclusions are drawn about art composition and music education.