About
Thomas L. McKinley is a Professor at Lynn University's Conservatory of Music, serving as Department Head for Composition, Music Theory, and Music History, and as Undergraduate Adviser and curriculum coordinator. With over two decades of teaching experience at institutions including Tulane University and the New England Conservatory, he is an active composer and scholar.
His educational background comprises:
- B.M. from the University of Cincinnati
- M.M. from the University of Cincinnati
- A.M. from Harvard University
- Ph.D. from Harvard University
McKinley's research focuses on chromaticism in the common-practice period and tonality in twentieth-century music. He has also pursued interdisciplinary work connecting music and visual arts, collaborating with art historian Olivia Shelley on lectures across South Florida. His analytical study "Dominant-Related Chromatic Third Progressions" reappraises third relationships in common-practice period music.
His scientific awards and commissions include:
- James Pappoutsakis Memorial Fund, Inc.
- Massachusetts Council on the Arts and Humanities (Extension Works)
- Harvard University grant
- ASCAP/Aspen Music School commission
- Georgia Woodwind Quintet commission
- Commission from Marc Reese (trumpet, Empire Brass)
- Wesley Weyman Fund (Boston, MA)
- University of Cincinnati grant
- Florida State Music Teachers Association (2014 Commissioned Composer)
- Composer-in-Residence at the 6th Annual New Music Festival at Lynn University (2011)
As an undergraduate adviser and curriculum coordinator, McKinley tailors instruction to individual student needs, aiming to instill a lifelong desire for learning. He emphasizes exposing students to diverse analytical approaches and conflicting viewpoints to foster growth.
McKinley co-founded the Boston-based performing group Extension Works, serving as its secretary/treasurer for five years. His compositions have been performed internationally in cities including Madrid and Rotterdam, and his "Six Bagatelles for Wind Quintet" was recorded by the Georgia Woodwind Quintet.
