Kent Kennan (1913-2003) was an American composer, teacher and author. Born in Wisconsin, he studied at the University of Michigan, the Eastman School of Music and in Rome, and later taught for many years at the University of Texas.

His works include orchestral pieces, chamber music, songs and widely played music for brass. His Night Soliloquy for flute and strings and his trumpet sonata remain especially familiar to performers.

Kennan’s style is clear, lyrical and carefully crafted, rooted in tonal and neoclassical habits without sounding merely academic. He had a strong command of instrumental line and formal balance.

His textbooks on counterpoint and orchestration also shaped generations of students. Kennan’s legacy is divided between the page, the classroom and the concert platform, all three neatly ruled and well lit.