Meet Mr. White

Mr. Matthew White, a native of Bourbonnais, IL, teaches orchestras at Scullen Middle School in Naperville, Illinois. Mr. White graduated with his Bachelor’s of Music Education from Illinois State University in 2015 where he studied viola with Dr. Kate Lewis and conducting with Dr. Glenn Block. Mr. White had the honor of serving as principal violist in the ISU Symphony and Chamber Orchestras and served as the violist for the ISU Graduate String Quartet. Mr. White also has his Master’s Degree in Educational Technology. 

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In 2018, Mr. White was awarded the inaugural Outstanding Emerging Educator Award from the Illinois String Teachers Association. Mr. White has presented at three National ASTA Conferences and has directed the Scullen Chamber Strings for performances at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago, IL (2022) and the Illinois Music Educators Conference in Peoria, IL (2020).

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Mr. White is an active violinist, violist, guest clinician and judge in the Chicago area and across the state of Illinois. Mr. White enjoys spending time with his family, cheering on Chicago sports teams, traveling/learning about cultures and traditions, trying new foods and learning from other people. A lover of laughter, Mr. White also enjoys sharing jokes - the cornier the better! In his free time, Mr. White enjoys exploring new technologies, reading, going to concerts and drinking coffee.

The Fun Stuff

How long have you been teaching?
I started teaching in 2015 - I started my career at Scullen and I am still here! It is the BEST place!

What instrument do you play?
The first instrument I learned how to play was the viola!  In college to become a music teacher, I learned how to play all of the band and orchestra instruments.  Some I play better than others ;)

What kind of music do you like to listen to?
I listen to a lot of different kinds of music - depends on the mood I am in.  I obviously enjoy classical music, but I also like Electronic music/DJs, Rock, Jazz, K-Pop, Country, Pop, Hip Hop - just about everything! I love finding new music too - so bring me your recommendations!

What do you like to do for fun?
I mostly like to hang out with my family.  My son is very active and likes to play video games and sports and we have two dogs that like to play and go on walks. I also like being outside (working in the garden, hiking), playing video games (Zelda and VR Golf are my go to games), reading and learning new things.

Favorites?