Hello, I am Noah Renken-Kapatos!
I am a dedicated composer, music educator, performing musician, recording artist, and audio engineer with a strong passion for music theory, production, and performance. Currently, I serve as a College Lecturer at Illinois State University, a Continuing Education Instructor at Heartland Community College, and a Private and Group Music Instructor at Hip Cat Music School. Additionally, I work as a freelance audio engineer and music producer.
At Illinois State University, I teach CTK 204: Music Foundations for the School of Creative Technologies, a course I personally developed. This curriculum introduces fundamental music theory concepts using the piano roll of a DAW rather than a traditional keyboard, explores key developments in contemporary music history (1980s–present), and instructs students on orchestrating multi-layered electronic compositions.
A native of Bloomington-Normal, IL, I have been actively involved in music since the age of 13. Beginning as a guitarist at 11, I later transitioned into songwriting, singing, and mastering multiple instruments. With extensive music theory knowledge gained through years of both study and professional instruction, I currently teach at three different institutions.
As a composer and producer, I have written, recorded, and self-produced six albums/EPs, along with various singles. My expertise extends beyond music performance and composition to include sound design for video and audio productions. I have experience working in surround sound environments, as well as designing and building speakers and various audio playback devices.
Notable Accomplishments and Awards:
2024 Digital Music Showcase
April 22nd, 2024: Received recognition at Illinois State University's first Digital Music Showcase for Genresis I and Majoring in Melodies
Graduated Summa Cum Laude at Illinois State University (4.0GPA)
December 16th, 2023: Upon graduation I received a Bachelors of Science in Creative Technologies, in the Audio Music Production sequence.
September 17th, 2023: Voted as a favorite tutor by the Pantagraph, a Central Illinois community news publication. This award was recognizing me for my private and group music instruction for guitar, music production, and music composition at Hip Cat Music School; located in Bloomington, Illinois.
2022 Illinois State University Student Annual Art Exhibition
April 14th, 2022: Awarded recognition for my musical composition, Stan. This song was released under Great Value Jesus, on the album Dissociation Nation (Released January 28th, 2022).
Photos directly above were taken by Noah Renken-Kapatos
Interviews / Music Reviews / Press: