Matthew J
Instruments: Piano, Voice
Styles: Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, R&B, Latin, Funk, Hip Hop, Electronic, Reggae, Latin Jazz, Swing, Bossa Nova, Soul
Matthew J
Instruments: Piano, Voice
Styles:
Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, R&B, Latin, Funk, Hip Hop, Electronic, Reggae, Latin Jazz, Swing, Bossa Nova, Soul
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 10-80
In college I majored in Piano, Electric Bass, Vocals I have no degrees or certificates. My musical education began at 5, both parents were musicians. I grew up in an environment of live music and UIL competitions.
Began Yamaha piano method at age 5 Blue Ribbons and Gold Stars in UIL Piano competition from 1987-92 Played keyboards professionally since 2000 in studio and on the road for local, national and international bands I have played over 4000 events on 3 continents and the Caribbean
My name is Matt and I am a Music Industry Professional from Austin, TX. I'm a lifelong pianist, have performed in bands since I was 16, studied bass, saxophone, vocals, percussion, and have been a professional musician and Music Industry Professional since I was 22 years old. My father was also a local musician and knew many local keyboard players. I took advantage of his contacts by taking lessons from some of Austin's most successful pianists. I've received instruction from Robert Skiles (Beto y Los Fairlanes), Rich Harney, Riley Osbourne and Grammy-winning pianist, Floyd Domino, among others. After traveling much of the world as a musician, I am pleased to return to my hometown and share what I've learned with those seeking instruction. My teaching style ranges from simplified beginner lessons that facilitate a basic understanding of music and the piano, to demonstrating shortcuts and tradecraft for more advanced ensemble players.
Most of my instruction experience has been on-the-job teaching of my professional associates and bandmates as a Musical Director and bandmate. I have occasionally taught lessons during brief stints off of the road, but playing on the road has been my primary job for most of my adult life. Teaching, learning, practice and rehearsal have played a major role in my day-to-day life. Through this experience I've acquired a broad understanding of the various ways in which people learn and relate to music. I am confident that I can create effective lesson plans for students of all abilities and levels of experience.
Much of my lesson plan is specific to the age, experience, desire and ability of the student, but the basics tend to remain the same. I try to craft dexterity and melodic exercises to unite the ear and fingers, while crating a basic understanding of the theory involved, a rhythmic exercise which teaches comping and time, and assign a song to work on between lessons. I refer to this plan as "Theory, Time & Tune." This technique was effective when assigned to me and I still use it to guide my own practice.
My teaching style is to be sensitive to each student. Each person has a different relationship and understanding of music. I try to identify and accommodate the ways in which the student learns best. Some students need explicit instruction and to be pushed, others need gentle guidance with time and space to work things out for themselves. A student's personality and ambitions will inform whether they need a relaxed environment or a more assertive variety of instruction. As a professional musical director i have become adept at recognizing a person's strengths and playing to them.
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