Role

:

Composer  

 

Matthew Coley is a renowned classical music artist who has made a name for himself as a marimba soloist, chamber musician, and educator. Born in 1981 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Coley grew up in a musical family and began playing percussion at a young age. He was drawn to the marimba, a percussion instrument that resembles a xylophone but has a deeper, richer sound. Coley attended the University of Iowa, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in percussion performance. He went on to earn a Master of Music degree from the University of North Texas, where he studied with marimba virtuoso Leigh Howard Stevens. Coley also studied with marimba masters Keiko Abe and Nancy Zeltsman. After completing his education, Coley began performing as a soloist and chamber musician. He quickly gained a reputation as a dynamic and engaging performer, known for his technical skill and musical sensitivity. He has performed throughout the United States and internationally, including in Europe, Asia, and South America. One of Coley's most notable performances was his debut at Carnegie Hall in 2010. He performed a program of contemporary marimba music, including works by Steve Reich, John Cage, and Paul Lansky. The performance was well-received by critics and established Coley as a rising star in the classical music world. Coley has also been recognized for his work as a chamber musician. He is a founding member of the percussion quartet Clocks in Motion, which has performed at festivals and concert series throughout the United States. The group has commissioned and premiered numerous works by contemporary composers, including John Luther Adams and Marc Mellits. In addition to his performing career, Coley is also an active educator. He has taught at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and the University of Iowa, and has given masterclasses and clinics at universities and music schools throughout the United States. He is passionate about sharing his love of the marimba and helping the next generation of musicians develop their skills. Coley has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career. In 2007, he was a winner of the Yamaha Young Performing Artists Competition, which recognizes outstanding young musicians in various categories. He has also been a finalist in the International Marimba Competition in Belgium and the Great Plains International Marimba Competition. Coley has recorded several albums of marimba music, including his debut solo album, "Found Objects," which features works by contemporary composers. He has also recorded with Clocks in Motion and other ensembles. In addition to his work as a classical musician, Coley is also interested in exploring the intersections between different musical genres. He has collaborated with jazz musicians and composers, and has performed with the rock band Wilco. Overall, Matthew Coley is a versatile and accomplished musician who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His technical skill, musical sensitivity, and passion for the marimba have earned him a devoted following and established him as one of the leading marimba soloists of his generation.

More....