Matthew Duvall
Whisper(s), April 23
Matthew Duvall is a co-Artistic Director, founding member, and the percussionist of Eighth Blackbird, currently in its 20th season.
Eighth Blackbird champions a performing aesthetic redefining the chamber music experience. Notable accomplishments include four Grammy awards, a MacArthur Award for Creative and Effective Institutions, competition wins with the Concert Artist Guild and the Naumburg Foundation, a catalog of studio recordings with Cedille records, and ensemble-in-residence positions with the University of Chicago, the University of Richmond, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago. Composers commissioned and premiered include Bryce Dessner, Stephen Hartke, Jennifer Higdon, Amy Beth Kirsten, David Lang and Steve Mackey, to name a few. Touring nationally and internationally ~200 days a year, the ensemble is regularly engaged in coachings, clinics, speaking engagements, and other related activities, in addition to concertizing.
Matthew studied at Oberlin College and the Oberlin Conservatory, completing degree work in Percussion Performance (with Michael Rosen), Classical Civilization, Art History, and Religion. Additional studies were completed at the University of Cincinnati and Northwestern University.
Matthew proudly endorses Pearl Drums and Adams Musical Instruments, Vic Firth Sticks and Mallets, Zildjian Cymbals, and Black Swamp Percussion Accessories.
More information can be found at http://www.eighthblackbird.org/