Jason chats to Klearhos Murphy

13 Mar

To celebrate the launch of Hatched Academy applications this month, I caught up with Klearhos Murphy, 2024 Hatched Composer Intensive participant and recipient of the biannual Hatched Alumni Commission. We chatted about his Hatched experience last year and found out more about his new work for EO, to premiere at Future Classics 2025.

You can apply now for the Hatched Composer Intensive and find out more about Hatched Academy here.

What was it like working with Ensemble Offspring in the Hatched Composer Intensive 2024?

It was a truly incredible experience. Bringing together composers and musicians for an immersive week-long workshop intensive, we not only rehearsed and refined our works but also engaged in deep discussions about music, identity, and composition especially in the context of contemporary Australian music. It was inspiring to collaborate with such talented, professional and encouraging musicians, and to connect with fellow composers who each brought their unique perspectives and artistry to the table was something truly special. The culmination of this process – the world premiere performances of our works at the Sydney Opera House – was both exhilarating, unbelievable and rewarding beyond belief. Being part of a program that champions new music in such a meaningful way was, in all honesty, an unforgettable experience!

**Do you keep in touch with the other three Hatched composers?**

Though we are based all around Australia (with some of us based internationally!) we all keep tabs online through stories and posts shared. It is truly wonderful to think that through this program we have all made connections and friendships through our common love and devotion to music making, despite all our completely different approaches to the same thing.

What have you been doing since the program ended last year?

Along with continuing my master’s studies at the University of Melbourne, I have had the privilege of writing two new works for the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, one being an orchestral work for the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, the other a work for chamber ensemble as part of their MSO Academy program. Aside from things musically, however, I have enjoyed being back in Perth over the holidays spending time with family, friends, nature and, especially, the beach!

What can you tell us about your new work?

Though they are early days still, many ideas are brewing for this unique and special ensemble for 2025, inspired by my faith as an Orthodox Christian. Influences that are, as of now, playing a major role in the creative process include Byzantine Chant, Greek folk, and Western early music traditions. I cannot wait to share what I have in stock this year, and I am eternally grateful to Ensemble Offspring, their supporters, and all those who have supported me in my journey thus far.

Listen to Klearhos’ work, EKKLESIA and the rest of the 2024 Hatched cohort on YouTube.