In this episode, I chat with Dr. Ben Cornelius-Bates (Duquesne University) about his musical upbringing in Alaska, his path to composition, and his experiences studying the organ. We also discuss how to write music for the organ, particularly within the context of secular music, and talk about timbre in Maan Varjot by Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho for organ and orchestra. Rest in peace to Saariaho, who passed away on June 2, 2023.

Ben's IMSLP

Ben's recorded organ improvisations

The second movement of Maan Varijot

Offrande (organ and cello)

This episode was edited by Jair G with ⁠ExpMediaProductions.⁠

Get in touch with me at: [email protected]