Stephen Dydo is a composer, multi-instrumentalist, and teacher whose musical life has ranged from classical composition and early music to world music, new music, and technology.
He studied at Columbia College and Columbia University, earning advanced degrees in composition and theory. Along the way, he worked with influential composers including Chou Wen-Chung, Mario Davidovsky, Harvey Sollberger, Charles Wuorinen, Milton Babbitt, and John Cage.
Stephen has written more than 80 works for chamber groups, orchestra, chorus, voice, and electronic media. His music has been performed by ensembles including the Group for Contemporary Music, New Calliope Singers, Silk String Ensemble, and the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble, and his honors include the Bearns Prize and a BMI Award.
As a performer, Stephen’s interests are just as broad. He has worked extensively with violin, viola, classical guitar, ancient and medieval European music, and the Chinese qin. He is known for his work with the qin, including developing an electric version of the instrument, and has also created music and transcriptions for theatrical and multimedia projects.
Stephen has taught composition, theory, and instrumental music at colleges, universities, and community music schools, including Columbia University, The New School, William Paterson College, Western Connecticut State University, Greenwich House Music School, and Crestwood Music Center.
At the Red Barn, Stephen brings a remarkable depth of knowledge together with curiosity, patience, and a love of helping students explore music from many different directions. Whether a student is interested in performance, composition, theory, or simply understanding music more deeply, Stephen enjoys helping them find a path that is both challenging and rewarding.