I have been playing professionally for over 30 years and have taught for over 10. I am proficient on keyboards, guitar, bass, ukelele, as well as lead and harmony vocals and songwriting. My focus is on developing your musical intuition through ear training, and accessing the music within. I have a home recording studio to help with the learning process. I provide a fun, safe, non-critical environment where you can access your inner musician in the most enjoyable way possible. Many of my students have gone onto become prolific songwriters and musicians and have recorded albums. Even beginners can learn quickly from my method which emphasizes techniques for keeping learning music fun. My 10th CD was released last year on Sojourn Records and was featured as NPR song of the day. Over the years my music has received much critical acclaim as I have continued to tour the world. I have opened for legends such as David Bowie, Ron Sexsmith, Robyn Hitchcock, Morphine, Bob Mould, Freedy Johnston, among many others. I have produced over a dozen albums by other artists and songwriters, and composed for major motion pictures including last years film, WON’T BACK DOWN starring Maggie Gyllenhaal. “In a career spanning more than 20 years, he has established himself as one of America's great under-the-radar songwriters. Had he emerged five decades back, he might have been a Tin Pan Alley stalwart, turning out intelligent, accessible songwriting with the clockwork genius of and Gary Goffin. His work is rife with the clever, incisive tunefulness that marked that era.”-- National Public Radio *** Lesson Details *** Students can expect to discover or re-discover their love for music and and their own natural musical inclinations. Many students report an increased sense of joy and possibility in their own lives. Curriculum depends on level of student, but is focused on being able to play favorite songs, develop comfort and ease in playing style, and accessing creativity and originality in approach. After 3 to 6 months working with me, most students can feel comfortable calling themselves a musician! *** Specialties *** I teach mainly guitar, keyboards, ukelele, and voice from beginning up to intermediate. I try to incorporate songwriting into the process as i find that it speeds up the process and helps to encourage enthusiasm and a more focused effort and better results. I am fluent in most styles but come from a folk, rock, country, pop background. I also have a home studio and use recording techniques to develop style and vocal ability.
Teaches Beginner
Teaching since 2002
Teaches ages 13+
Has background check
I am a 77-year-old and have been playing the keyboard off and on for 40 years. Matthew is not only a great musician, but an excellent teacher. I need to unlearn my "bad" habits. Matthew is doing just that!
I had a one off single lesson with Matthew, I was only in New York for a couple days and was lucky enough to get a sing writing session with him. He gave some great insight and valid techniques towards song writing. He was easy going and very friendly. Would certainly recommend.
Matt is an awesome instructor. Unlike a traditional guitar teacher, Matt understands what his students want to play, making lessons much more interesting and making practicing much easier. I've had a few lessons with Matt and have learned more in those lessons that I could have ever learned by myself. Highly recommend.