McPhee, Colin (1901–1964)

Canadian-born US composer. His studies with Edgard Varèse much influenced his own music, as did his research into Balinese music 1934–36. His best-known work, Tabuh-tabuhan for two pianos and orchestra (1936), uses a combination of Balinese and Western orchestral instruments.

He studied with Gustav Strube (1867–1953) at the Peabody Conservatory, Baltimore, and graduated in 1921. He then studied piano with Arthur Friedheim (1859–1932) at the Canadian Academy of Music, where he played a piano concerto of his own in 1924. Next he studied composition in Paris with Paul le Flem and piano with Isidore Philipp (1863–1958). From 1934 to 1939 he spent much time in Bali and Mexico. He also wrote a number of books on Bali and its music, including Music in Bali 1966.

Works Orchestral three symphonies (1955, 1957, 1962); concerto for piano and eight wind instruments (1928), Tabuh-tabuhan for two pianos and orchestra (1936), four Iroquois Dances for orchestra.

Piano Balinese Ceremonial Music for two pianos (1942), and other piano music;.