Meet Mr. White

Matthew White – Orchestra Director, 5-String Violinist/Violist, & Music Education Innovator

Matthew White is a passionate music educator, string player, and creative catalyst currently serving as the Orchestra Director at Scullen Middle School in Naperville, Illinois (District 204). A native of Bourbonnais, IL, Matthew earned his Bachelor of Music Education from Illinois State University in 2015, studying viola with Dr. Kate Lewis and conducting with Dr. Glenn Block. During his time at ISU, he served as principal violist of the Symphony and Chamber Orchestras and performed with the ISU Graduate String Quartet. A dedicated lifelong learner, he holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology and is currently completing a second Master's Degree in School Counseling at Lewis University.

At Scullen Middle School, Matthew leads a vibrant, student-centered music program grounded in both tradition and innovation. Known for his forward-thinking pedagogy, he designs meaningful learning experiences that empower students to explore their identities as musicians and individuals. His curriculum regularly features independent study, cross-cultural music experiences, and alternative styles ensembles. This includes founding and directing "Soundwave" (an electric string ensemble) and "Saraswati" (an Indo/Western fusion ensemble featuring Carnatic and Hindustani music). 

Matthew’s innovative contributions to the field have been recognized with numerous honors. In 2026, he was recognized as a finalist for the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. His previous accolades include the inaugural 2018 Outstanding Emerging Educator Award from the Illinois String Teachers Association and the District 204 Impact Award, which honors staff members who have made a profound, positive impact on their school community. Under his direction, the Scullen Philharmonia (formerly Chamber Strings) performed at the renowned 2022 Midwest Clinic in Chicago and the 2020 Illinois Music Educators Conference. A grant-winning educator, Matthew has secured multiple grants to fund guest artist residencies and electronic instruments. He has also shared his expertise by presenting at three National ASTA Conferences and as a featured guest on the Dr. Laux Orchestra Teacher Podcast. Additionally, his commitment to student experiences has taken him on international tours, performing in Europe (2017) and Ireland (2019) with high school ensembles.

Beyond the classroom, Matthew is an active freelance violinist and violist, recently performing with the OPUS Chamber Orchestra, the Chicagoland Educators Orchestra, and the Naperville Men’s Glee Club. Inspired by his friend and teaching partner, Ms. Daryl Silberman, Matthew performs on a Realist RV5-e 5-string instrument, utilizing its expanded range for both teaching and performance. He is deeply passionate about exploring the dynamic intersections of music, technology, visual art, and social-emotional wellness. Outside of his musical life, Matthew enjoys spending quality time with his family, enjoying the outdoors, cultivating his healthy obsession with elephants, watching sports, exploring new cultures, savoring excellent coffee, and sharing his extensive collection of wonderfully corny jokes.