Matheson Bell (He/They) is a composer, musicologist, and musician based in the New York metro area. He is from Southeast Alabama and attended the Alabama School of Math and Science on the Gulf Coast.

Matheson’s music is inspired by traditional Southern and Appalachian folk music filtered through the lens of classical composition. He uses his upbringing in the Southern Baptist faith for his hymn-like vocal writing and choral arrangements. Drawing from ambient electronic music, Matheson experiments in live soundscape performances and modular synthesis as a tool in composition.

He draws a strong connection between the music of the European Baroque and Classical Era, and the modern music that surrounds our lives today. He credits his penchant for diverse musical exploration to his family’s strong connection to music, including his father’s career as a rock/jazz bassist, his mother’s time in church choir, and both of their love for New Orleans brass band.

Matheson is currently studying Studio and Classical Composition at the SUNY Purchase Conservatory of Music. He has composed for the SUNY Purchase New Music Chamber Ensemble, his own live performances, and has arranged for the Alabama School of Math and Science Choir. He has performed several solo sets of original songs, including at The Bitter End in Manhattan. He has worked with several student ensembles and has performed in the orchestra pit for several student-produced musicals.