Pronunciation: [ˈalfɹɪd ɹˈiːd] (IPA) 
Alfred Reed is a composer whose surname is pronounced /rid/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "r" sound in his surname is pronounced with a retroflex consonant, where the tongue is curled back slightly. The "ee" sound in "Reed" is pronounced with a long vowel sound, represented by the IPA symbol /i/. To spell "Alfred Reed" correctly, it is important to remember the retroflex "r" and the long vowel sound of the second syllable.
Alfred Reed was an American composer, conductor, and music educator. Born on January 25, 1921, in New York City, he is best known for his significant contributions to the repertoire of wind music. Reed's impact on the wind band genre earned him international recognition and praise.
Throughout his career, Reed composed over 250 works, including symphonies, concertos, chamber music, and numerous pieces for wind bands. His compositions often displayed a deep musical understanding, drawing influence from classical, jazz, and folk traditions. Reed had a unique ability to capture various moods and emotions, creating captivating and powerful musical experiences for performers and audiences alike.
In addition to his composition work, Alfred Reed was a revered conductor and lecturer, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise with countless students and musicians. He held positions at various prestigious institutions, including the University of Miami, where he directed the band program. Reed's commitment to music education emphasized the importance of understanding and appreciating the art form.
Known for his meticulous attention to detail and creative musical expressions, Reed left an indelible mark on the wind band world. His works continue to be performed and celebrated by musicians of all levels, leaving a lasting legacy that has influenced generations of composers, conductors, and music enthusiasts.
The name "Alfred Reed" does not have an etymology in the traditional sense, as it is a proper noun referring to a specific individual. It is a combination of two names: Alfred, an English name meaning "wise counselor" or "elf counsel", and Reed, an English surname derived from the Old English word "read" meaning "red" or "ruddy". The origin and meaning of a person's given name or surname are often distinct from each other and don't provide insight into the etymology of the combined name.
