Join IPR's Peter Payette in a conversation with the Emmy Award–winning composer Matthew Burtner at the Garden Theater for a listening session of his eco-acoustic works, followed by a community music-making activity. This will be held on April 29 at 6 pm.
An incoming resident at the Sawbill Surf Club supported by the Arts Midwest GIG Fund Grant and Elberta Labor Heritage Center, Burtner will make music with northern Michigan's landscapes and soundscapes.
His work bridges music, science, technology and ecology. Born in Alaska and deeply influenced by northern landscapes, Burtner is known internationally for transforming environmental data — such as the rhythms of glaciers, wind, and water — into immersive musical experiences.
See Burtner's work featured on the PBS series, Indie Alaska: Making Music with Glaciers and Snow.
Burtner will be leading additional community events during his time in northern Michigan.
Wednesday, April 29, 6-8pm – An Evening with Matthew Burtner
Saturday, May 9, 1-4pm – Community Listening Workshop: Participants will explore field recording, sound mapping, and collaborative listening, gaining hands-on experience at the intersection of sound, ecology, and creativity. Registration is required and there is a small fee for the workshop.
Wednesday, May 13, 6pm-8pm – Final Listening Session: At the end of the residency, a listening session and community potluck will take place at the Elberta United Methodist Church, 555 Lincoln Ave, on Wednesday, May 13th from 6-8pm. The event will feature new compositions inspired by Michigan's landscapes and soundscapes, created during Burtner's time in the community.