Daniel Newman-Lessler

Daniel Newman-Lessler (DNL) is an LA-based composer, pianist, singer, conductor, and instrument builder noted by the LA Times for his “luxuriant theatricality” and San Francisco Classical Voice as “an anomaly and semi-apostate.”  DNL holds a doctorate from CalArts, where his research concentrated on megaphones as musical instruments; musical playgrounds & architectural instrument building; and Bakhtin’s “carnivalesque” in the works of M A Harms and the LA experimental music scene.  His doctoral thesis, and most recent musical playground instrument, Seesaw Organ, was featured at Burning Man Festival 2025.   DNL has written, directed, and improvised music that has been performed by countless ensembles across the country. DNL is also a teacher and associate music director, making appearances at many universities and ensembles.

You can read more about Daniel's work on his website.