Matthew Whitehouse
University of Arizona
Abstract
Astronomical Organ Music
Music inspired by astronomical phenomena is familiar to INSAP participants. In this presentation, I will present two pieces of astronomy-inspired music composed specifically for the organ: Nebulae and Nova. The music will be accompanied by a slide show of astronomical images. Nebulae is my original work and is a musical narrative on the process of star formation. It has been performed throughout the United States, and is currently slated for a performance at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris in October 2010. Nova is by the American composer Myron Roberts, and is a depiction of a supernova explosion.
Biographical Details
Organist and composer Matthew Whitehouse is a doctoral student in organ performance at The University of Arizona under the direction of Dr. Pamela Decker. He holds the Master of Music degree in organ performance from The University of Arizona, and completed undergraduate studies in organ performance at The University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC. Whitehouse is organist and choir director at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Sierra Vista, Arizona, where he oversees all aspects of the parish’s music programme. He has appeared in recital at venues in Mississippi, South Carolina, and Arizona and his compositions have been performed throughout the United States. In addition to his work as organist, composer, and church musician, Whitehouse is active in the area of astronomy education and has served on both the public outreach staff of Kitt Peak National Observatory and as a member of the instructional staff of the University of Arizona Astronomy Camp. One of Whitehouse’s major artistic interests is exploring connections between music and astronomy. This interest is frequently reflected in his work as a composer and performer. Under the direction of Dr. Jarita Holbrook, Whitehouse is completing a graduate minor that combines aspects of cultural astronomy and ethnomusicology.