Matthew Santa

Matthew Santa serves as Professor of Music Theory and Chair of the Music Theory and Composition Area at Texas Tech University School of Music, with prior teaching appointments at Queens College and Hunter College. His leadership shapes curriculum development and academic initiatives within the department.

Academic credentials include advanced degrees from Louisiana State University and The City University of New York, establishing foundational expertise in theoretical frameworks and analytical methodologies.

Research focuses on post-tonal analysis, diatonic set theory, and parsimonious voice leading, bridging complex theoretical concepts with practical pedagogy. His work integrates popular music analysis and metrical studies, emphasizing accessibility for diverse learners through innovative teaching resources.

Publications demonstrate evolving scholarly trends from late-20th century set theory toward contemporary applications in musical form and rhythm. Recent textbooks synthesize Rothstein, Krebs, and Mirka's theories into unified analytical approaches for undergraduate and graduate education.

Scientific recognition includes:

• MTSNYS Young Scholar Award (1998)

Mentorship encompasses graduate and undergraduate students across composition and theory disciplines, though specific advisees aren't documented in source materials. No grant funding details appear in available records.

Collaborative projects include the Flute/Theory Workout series with Lisa Garner Santa and Thomas Hughes, blending performance technique with theoretical concepts through MIDI accompaniment systems.