Journey & Inspirations
Koki was born in Tbilisi, Georgia, where he pursued formal music education at the Tbilisi State Conservatory, earning both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music Theory and Composition. His early career involved composing for theater and film in Georgia, and he co-founded the Theater of Movement with Kakha Bakuradze, emphasizing physical storytelling and experimental performance.
Early Life and Education
Koki was born in Tbilisi, Georgia, where he pursued formal music education at the Tbilisi State Conservatory, earning both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music Theory and Composition. His early career involved composing for theater and film in Georgia, and he co-founded the Theater of Movement with Kakha Bakuradze, emphasizing physical storytelling and experimental performance.
Transition to the U.S. and Synetic Theater
In the mid-2000s, Koki began collaborating remotely with his cousin, Paata Tsikurishvili, the founding artistic director of Synetic Theater in Arlington, Virginia. Initially, he sent compositions from Georgia for Synetic’s productions. Recognizing the impact of his work, the theater invited him to the U.S., and since July 2007, he has served as Synetic Theater’s resident composer and sound designer.
Artistic Contributions and Style
Koki’s compositions are integral to Synetic Theater’s signature style, which combines movement, mime, and music to tell stories without dialogue. His work often blends electronic music with traditional Georgian elements, creating immersive soundscapes that enhance the theatrical experience. Notable productions featuring his compositions include The Island of Dr. Moreau, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Sleepy Hollow, and The Immigrant.
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Awards
Throughout his tenure at Synetic Theater, Koki has received multiple nominations and awards for his sound design and original compositions. He won the Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Sound Design for King Lear in 2012 and has been nominated for his work on productions like The Island of Dr. Moreau and Twelfth Night.
Beyond Theater
In addition to his theatrical work, Koki continues to explore electronic music, focusing on sound synthesis and polyrhythms. His piece “Density 0.0” was selected for performance at the International Gaudeamus Music Week in Amsterdam in 2002, highlighting his engagement with contemporary music festivals in Europe.
Koki Lortkipanidze’s career reflects a dedication to blending cultural traditions with modern artistic expression, making significant contributions to both Georgian and American performing arts.
