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The Augustana School of Music has appointed Matthew Whitaker, an internationally-acclaimed jazz pianist, composer and educator, as the university’s inaugural artist-in-residence.

“I’m excited to be part of the Augustana community and to share my love for music in new ways — with students, faculty and the Sioux Falls community. This isn’t just about performance — it’s about growth, collaboration and opening new doors through creativity and imagination,” said Whitaker.

One of the most dynamic musical voices of his generation, Whitaker brings with him a creative energy that promises to reshape music education at Augustana — connecting students to the power of storytelling, collaboration and cultural expression through music.

Blind since birth, Whitaker began playing music at the age of three. By age nine, he was performing internationally. A graduate of the Filomen M. D’Agostino Greenberg Music School and The Juilliard School, Whitaker has since become a globally-recognized performer and Yamaha artist. His performances span Carnegie Hall, the Apollo Theater and major jazz festivals around the world. Known for his improvisational brilliance and infectious positivity, Whitaker’s influence reaches well beyond the stage.

“Yamaha is proud to support Matthew in this new chapter at ������ý. His work reflects our shared commitment to artistic excellence, innovation in education and the belief that music can empower and uplift every generation,” said Director of Yamaha Artist Services in New York Bonnie Barrett.

Whitaker’s role at the university will be an immersive one within the Augustana School of Music. Whitaker will teach a course called The History of Blues, Jazz & Rock — part of Augustana’s core curriculum that explores American musical identity through the lens of innovation and resistance. He will also lead the Augustana Jazz Combo — mentoring student musicians in improvisation, groove and ensemble artistry. In addition to other collaborations with Augustana’s major instrumental and vocal ensembles, Whitaker will join the Augustana Band with a feature performance of Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” and Augustana’s choirs to introduce gospel traditions and jazz organ accompaniment. He will also help reimagine the sequence of upper-level music theory courses alongside Augustana artist Jeremy Hegg ‘94 — exploring form, harmony and rhythm through a modern lens.

“This is a bold step for Augustana,” said Dr. Peter Folliard, dean of the Augustana School of Music. “Matthew’s presence at Augustana is a gift to our community and a statement about who we are and what we’re about. Matthew represents everything we believe music can do: teach, connect and transform. His artistry will shape our students, inspire our faculty and deepen our impact across our campus and community.”

Throughout his residency at Augustana, Whitaker will also participate in community engagement, public performances and artist conversations.

To learn more about the Augustana School of Music, visit augie.edu/SoM.