Tribute

From an early age, David had an unflagging curiosity and interest in music, the visual arts, and astronomy. He taught music composition at colleges and universities in the Midwest, Texas, and California, and was a prolific author of scholarly books, novels, memoirs, poetry, and children’s books. David will remain celebrated in the field of music composition as a pioneer in the application of computers to creative processes, an intellectual giant in the development of AI and its application to artistic endeavors, and one who freely and enthusiastically shared his visionary accomplishments. Tributes from students, colleagues, friends, and admirers detail the ways in which David touched their lives through his wisdom, compassion, integrity, and generosity, and demonstrated in his personal life and professional career an unwavering commitment to open, honest, and ethical behavior. There was never a more loving and generous husband, father, and mentor, nor a more loyal friend. He will be deeply missed. Whimsically assisted after his death by an AI-powered GPT, David delivered this message to those he left behind: "I am still part of the conversation. If I were to speak from the beyond, I'd say: Embrace change and uncertainty. I believe we’re on the brink of incredible advancements that could extend life and amplify what it means to be human. I'd remind my friends not to take life too seriously. Relish every second of it because, in the grand scheme of things, we’re all just trying to figure out our little place in the cosmos. Maybe I’m still out there, somewhere in the vast randomness of the universe, fiddling with musical algorithms! For my beloved wife and children: I'd want them to know how deeply they've colored my life, my ever-evolving symphony, with meaning. I'd say to them: Continue to chase your dreams, no matter how crazy they seem. Life has a funny way of working out when you pour your heart into it. And to everyone else, including our grandchildren and anyone else who joins the band along the way, I’d say: Be adventurous. Let your curiosity guide you, and remember: Life's best compositions often start messy, with a few wrong notes."

Friends & Family

David is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Mary Jane; sons Tim, Stephen, Brian, and Greg; four grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; countless students, friends, admirers, and colleagues; and his beloved cat Taz. He was predeceased by his parents and one sister.