Colin McPhee 1900 – 1964

Biography

Colin McPhee was born on March 5, 1900, in Montreal, Canada, into a world that would soon feel the transformative influence of his musical gifts. Throughout his life, he devoted himself to the dual pursuits of composition and musicology, establishing himself as a significant figure in twentieth-century music. His career reflected a deep commitment to understanding and creating music across diverse traditions and styles.

McPhee’s work as both a composer and musicologist allowed him to bridge the gap between Western classical traditions and world music, enriching the cultural landscape of his era. His scholarly approach to music complemented his creative output, making him a respected voice in academic and artistic circles alike. Based primarily in the United States during much of his career, he contributed meaningfully to the development of American musical thought.

On January 7, 1964, McPhee passed away in Los Angeles, California, at the age of sixty-three. His legacy was honored through his interment at Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles. Though his cause of death remains unrecorded, his life’s work in music and scholarship continues to be remembered as a vital contribution to the cultural heritage of North America and beyond.