Ian Cook (b. 1990) is a composer who writes for many kinds of ensembles, including solo, chamber ensemble, choir, orchestra, and wind symphony. His musical language is often melodically driven and blends traditional and newer styles. Ian grew up in DeKalb, Illinois where he began playing percussion in fifth grade and trombone in sixth. Ian has studied the trombone under teachers such as Reuben Cooper, Jr., and Kirk Lundbeck who currently studies with Jay Friedman, principle trombonist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. He began composing simple short pieces in fifth grade and has continued writing music until the present. Ian is currently attending St. Olaf College where he is studying Instrumental Music Education and Music Theory and Composition under teachers such as the ASCAP award-winning composer Dr. Justin Merritt, trombonist Larry Zimmerman, composer and conductor of the St. Olaf Orchestra Steven Amundson, and internationally acclaimed composer and director of the St. Olaf Band Dr. Timothy Mahr.