Role

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Composer  

Period

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Romantic

Genre

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Choral

 

Matthew Culloton is a renowned American composer, conductor, and pianist who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on August 23, 1976, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Culloton grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a church organist, and his mother was a choir director, which exposed him to music at an early age. Culloton began his musical journey by learning to play the piano at the age of five. He showed a natural talent for music and quickly progressed to playing more complex pieces. As a child, he also sang in his church choir, which further developed his love for music. Culloton attended St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance. During his time at St. Olaf, he was a member of the renowned St. Olaf Choir, which gave him the opportunity to perform in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and South America. After completing his undergraduate studies, Culloton pursued a Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting at the University of Minnesota. He also studied composition under the tutelage of Dominick Argento, a Pulitzer Prize-winning composer. Culloton's compositions are known for their intricate harmonies, beautiful melodies, and emotional depth. He has composed works for various ensembles, including choirs, orchestras, and chamber groups. Some of his most notable works include "Requiem," "The Rose," "The Garden," and "The Singing Heart." "Requiem" is a choral work that was commissioned by the National Lutheran Choir in 2005. The piece is a tribute to the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and is a powerful reflection on the themes of loss, grief, and hope. The work has been performed by numerous choirs across the United States and has received critical acclaim for its emotional impact and musical beauty. "The Rose" is a choral work that was commissioned by the Dale Warland Singers in 2002. The piece is a setting of the poem "The Rose" by Christina Rossetti and is a beautiful meditation on the themes of love, beauty, and mortality. The work has been performed by many choirs and has become a staple of the choral repertoire. "The Garden" is a choral work that was commissioned by the Minnesota Chorale in 2010. The piece is a setting of the poem "The Garden" by Andrew Marvell and is a celebration of the beauty and wonder of nature. The work has been praised for its lush harmonies and evocative imagery. "The Singing Heart" is a choral work that was commissioned by the American Choral Directors Association in 2015. The piece is a setting of the poem "The Singing Heart" by Paul Laurence Dunbar and is a powerful reflection on the themes of love, faith, and perseverance. The work has been performed by many choirs and has been praised for its emotional impact and musical beauty. In addition to his work as a composer, Culloton is also a highly respected conductor. He has served as the Artistic Director of the renowned choral ensemble The Singers since 2004. Under his leadership, The Singers have become one of the most respected choral ensembles in the United States, known for their impeccable musicianship and innovative programming. Culloton has also served as a guest conductor for many other ensembles, including the Minnesota Orchestra, the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, and the National Lutheran Choir.

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