Charles Corey (PhD, 2011) followed in the footsteps of one of his teachers, the late Dean Drummond, as Director of the Harry Partch Institute at Montclair State University in New Jersey. The Partch Institute housed the instruments invented by American Just Intonation composer Harry Partch.

This November, Corey and the Partch Instrumentarium traveled to Seattle when the University of Washington School of Music assumed custodianship of the collection. Corey will join the composition faculty and continue his work as curator of these unique instruments. According to Richard Karpen, Director of the University of Washington School of Music,  

“‘… the instruments will be a resource for students and faculty in the School of Music as well as interested members of the general… The instruments will be used to teach students to play Partch’s unique microtonal compositions, to commission new works, and to preserve the historical legacy of an important American composer.’”

Corey is very optimistic about the future of the Partch Instrumentarium at the University of Washington and what it will mean for research on Harry Partch and his music.

"The move to the University of Washington is an exciting development for the understanding and continued performance of Partch’s music. UW is known for its high standards for research, scholarship, and frequent collaboration amongst the arts disciplines; such standards are crucial to successfully undertake productions of Partch’s largest works. Over the next few years, I will work towards a presentation of one of his total-theater works at UW, teach students about Partch’s instruments, music, and philosophies, and restore his instruments to top condition, all with the support and blessing of UW and Danlee Mitchell. It is my hope that the Harry Partch presence here will resolve misconceptions about his life and work while bringing his music and philosophy to new audiences."

Congratulations to Charles Corey on his continued work in maintaining and expanding the legacy of Harry Partch.

Read the full article from the University of Washington.

This post has been updated.