Contact Information
Biography
Dr. Ryan McMasters is a composer, performer, and music theorist living and working in Pittsburgh, PA. His primary research interests include algorithmic computer music, open source and equitable technologies for music creation, the history and aesthetics of No Wave and Industrial Metal, and the poetry, prose, and music of Hilda Doolittle.
As a composer, Ryan's work focuses on the incorporation of noise and distortion in traditional and non-traditional forms. Recent commissions include The Pittsburgh Philharmonic, soprano Anna Elder, and an evening-length electro-acoustic opera for SpacePants. As an extension of his research into algorithmic music, Ryan has developed ‘oread,' a programming language for performers that opens up the potential to apply algorithmic processes to live performance.
He is the artistic director and primary composer for the Pittsburgh based new music ensemble WOLFTRAP, who have performed on the Pittsburgh Festival of New Music, Beyond: Microtonal Pittsburgh, and the c:ompiler series. WOLFTRAP recently released their first album, ‘rock shells.' To critical acclaim in the new music community. Ryan is also a member of Bombici, an electro-acoustic band that blends traditional Balkan folk music with modern pop and dance.
Ryan holds a Master of Music from the University of Hartford and a Bachelor of Music from Duquesne University. He completed his Ph.D. in Music Theory and Composition from the University of Pittsburgh under the advisement of Mathew Rosenblum.
Ryan is married to violinist and educator Kathleen Andrews and they both enjoy teaching their love of music to their young daughter, Betty.
Education
Ph.D., University of Pittsburgh
M.M., University of Hartford
B.M., Duquesne University