Anna Matthews is a composer of contemporary classical music and flautist based in Exeter, UK. Born in Devon, Anna studied music at Durham University and specialised in composition under Martyn Harry, graduating with first class honours and the Rosalind Dickinson Prize. She has since furthered her studies under James Weeks, Larry Goves and Michael Oliva.
Anna writes for instrumental ensembles, choirs and soloists and has work performed around the UK by many leading performers. She is particularly interested in using sound to communicate non-musical ideas – from expressive texts to landscapes to scientific concepts. Her music often explores different textures and shifting harmonies in a mostly tonal context, with influences ranging from Bartók, Stravinsky, Ravel, Britten, Macmillan and Ligeti to Sigur Rós, The National, Radiohead and British folk music.
Anna’s music has been broadcast on BBC Radio 3 and performed at concerts and festivals including the Three Choirs Festival. She has been a finalist for numerous awards and competitions, has been featured new music composer in Choir & Organ magazine twice and is published by Recital Music. She became a Fellow of the Clore Leadership Programme in 2013.
She regularly performs on the flute and piccolo with Exeter Symphony Orchestra and Exeter Camerata, and with Devon Philharmonic Orchestra as a deputy, as well as playing in the pit band for shows.
Images: © A. Matthews
Anna R Matthews 