About Matthew Swartz
Connecticut-born composer and pianist Matthew Swartz (b. 1988) has resided in Los Angeles County since 2010. He holds degrees from Claremont Graduate University (D.M.A. and M.A., Music Composition) and the University of Connecticut (B.M., Piano Performance). During his musical studies, Swartz has been fortunate to receive mentorship from prominent American composers Peter Boyer and Kenneth Fuchs as well as acclaimed pianist Neal Larrabee.
In recent years, Swartz has increased focus on his love for writing choral music. His original works have been recognized in competitions including the Yale Glee Club’s 2020 Emerging Composers Competition, ChoralArt’s 2019 New England Carol Contest, and Mountainside Master Chorale’s 2015 California Voices II composition competition. Swartz received his first choral commission in 2018 while participating as a Composition Fellow in Choral Arts Initiative’s PREMIERE|Project Festival.
During his time at Claremont Graduate University, where he received the Walker-Parker memorial fellowship, Swartz maintained an assistantship with Boyer that focused heavily on teaching and tutoring Applications of Music Technology at the graduate level. From 2010-2016, Swartz was an accompanist for the voice department.
Lake Tahoe, July 2020
Swartz's D.M.A. projects culminated in a large orchestral piece titled MINDSPACE, as well as a thesis paper titled "Texture and Melody: Defining Aesthetic Pillars in Hybrid Scores of Modern Film" that focuses on stylistic elements in the music of Hans Zimmer and Thomas Newman.
In his freelance endeavors, Swartz is active as a collaborative pianist, piano instructor, event pianist, music engraver, music technology consultant, and church organist/pianist in the L.A. area. His work as accompanist for Bonita Unified School District culminates in annual performances at Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm. Collaborating often with choirs and vocal soloists, Swartz concertizes frequently and participates in recitals, competitions, and master classes. Swartz enjoys ensemble singing and has been a member of the Pomona College Choir since 2012.