Role

:

Composer  

Birth

:

November 9, 1907 in Omaha, NE

Death

:

June 22, 1988 in Berkeley, CA

Period

:

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Concerto

 

 

Orchestral

 

Burrill Phillips was an American composer of classical music, born on October 22, 1907, in Mitchell, South Dakota. He was the son of a Methodist minister and grew up in a musical family. His mother was a pianist, and his father played the violin. Phillips began playing the piano at a young age and showed a natural talent for music. Phillips attended the University of South Dakota, where he studied music theory and composition. He later went on to study at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, where he earned a master's degree in music composition. While at Eastman, Phillips studied under the renowned composer Howard Hanson, who had a significant influence on his musical style. After completing his studies, Phillips worked as a music teacher and composer. He taught at several universities, including the University of Minnesota, the University of Illinois, and the University of Arizona. He also served as the composer-in-residence at the University of Redlands in California. Phillips' music is characterized by its use of folk melodies and rhythms. He was particularly interested in the music of Native American tribes and often incorporated their music into his compositions. His music is also known for its use of unusual instruments, such as the marimba and the harp. One of Phillips' most famous works is his Symphony No. 2, which was commissioned by the Minnesota Orchestra in 1951. The symphony is based on Native American themes and features a solo flute, which represents the voice of the Native American spirit. The symphony was well-received by audiences and critics alike and helped establish Phillips as a prominent composer. Another notable work by Phillips is his Suite for Harp and Orchestra, which was commissioned by the American Harp Society in 1962. The suite is a collection of five pieces, each based on a different folk melody. The suite is known for its intricate harp solos and its use of unusual harmonies. Phillips also wrote several works for chamber ensembles, including his String Quartet No. 2, which was commissioned by the University of Arizona in 1965. The quartet is known for its use of dissonant harmonies and its complex rhythms. In addition to his work as a composer, Phillips was also a respected music educator. He wrote several books on music theory and composition, including "The Complete Book of Creative Composition" and "The Creative Use of Music in Group Therapy." He also served as a guest lecturer at several universities and music festivals. Phillips continued to compose music throughout his life, even after he retired from teaching. He died on May 22, 1988, in Redlands, California, at the age of 80. His music continues to be performed and recorded by orchestras and chamber ensembles around the world.

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