Matthew Whitehouse
Organist Organist, astronomy educator, and Columbia native Dr. Matthew Whitehouse serves as Observatory Manager at the South Carolina State Museum. After completing undergraduate organ studies at USC, Matthew earned master's and doctoral degrees in organ from The University of Arizona in Tucson. Matthew returned to Columbia in 2013 to take up his role at the State Museum. Matthew has served as organist at several churches in the Midlands. These include St. Alban's Episcopal Church (Lexington), St. Simon and St. Jude Episcopal Church (Irmo), and most recently St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Newberry. He particularly loves organ improvisation and its role in creatively supporting the liturgy. Matthew is also fascinated by connections between music and astronomy, and has given presentations on that topic both locally and internationally. |
Elliott Stewart
Handbell and Choir Director Elliott Stewart is the Director of Bands at Longleaf Middle School in Columbia, South Carolina and Assistant Band Director with the Westwood High School Marching Band in Blythewood, South Carolina. He is a 2012 graduate of Irmo High School and holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Trumpet Performance from Furman University, as well as a Master of Music degree in Music Education with Initial Certification from Converse University. Mr. Stewart currently resides in Columbia where he enjoys writing music, conducting, and physical fitness. Mr. Stewart's professional affiliations include the National Association for Music Education, the South Carolina Music Educators Association, the South Carolina Band Director’s Association, Pi Kappa Lambda National Music Honors Society, and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity. |