Composer Matthew Owensby received a B.M. in Violin Performance and a B.M. in Music Composition from Chapman University in 2014 and is currently working towards a graduate degree in composition at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. In 2012 he became a founding member of the Kadath Quartet, dedicated to the performance of new music and supporting student composers. In 2008 he founded and led the Valley Center Symphony which has since performed several new music compositions each year. Owensby is an active participant in the performance of new music in San Francisco as well as performing as a member of the conservatory’s Baroque Ensemble, championing early music as well as contemporary works for period instruments.
In composition, Owensby strives for a visceral and complex sound created through dissonance, virtuosity, and microtonality. Notable works include his Concerto for Viola and Orchestra (2013), Leanan Sidhe for Bassoon and Ensemble (2015), Ukobach for Large Orchestra (2015), and Idafect for Pierrot Ensemble and Percussion. His works have been frequently performed in San Diego, Orange County, and San Francisco and played by members of the Moscow Contemporary Music Ensemble, the Firebird Ensemble, Kadath Quartet, SFCO, the Chapman Orchestra, and the SFCM New Music Ensemble.
M.D. Owensby teaches private lessons in Violin, Viola, and Composition during summer sessions by request.
Owensby seeks self-motivated beginning and intermediate students with an interest in music theory and aural training. Students are required to practice independently based on the assignments discussed during lessons. Lessons for beginning through intermediate follow a moderately structured curriculum, however, individualized repertoire may be assigned for intermediate students through discussion and student's individual interests. The fee for summer sessions is a one-time, non-refundable flat rate, and one make-up lesson will be permitted per session if the student gives two or more days notification of absence.
Common Materials Required for Students:
Violin, Viola (Beginning through Intermediate): Essentials for Strings (beginning rhythm and scales) All for Strings Books 1 & 2 Suzuki Books 2-5 Solos for Young Violinists/Violists Books 2-5 Carl Flesch Scale System (intermediate and advanced scale study) Pocket Dictionary of Musical Terms (any publisher) Additional Intermediate/Advanced repertoire to be assigned by request.
Composition: Essential Dictionary of Orchestration (Alfred Miniature Book) Pocket Dictionary of Musical Terms (any publisher) Kostka & Payne Tonal Harmony (4th edition or later, with workbook) Additional scores for study to be requested from the Dover catalogue of moderately priced scores, most of which are available legally and free on imslp.org