Matt graduated from Temple University Magna Cum Laude, with a degree in Classical Guitar performance. At Temple he studied under the direction of Allen Krantz. He recieved his initial guitar instruction from Philadelphia Jazz guitarist Frank Butrey. Matt also eceived a strong foundation in various musical styles. Matt completed the rigorous Music Theory course at Settlement School of Music, under theorist and composer Roberto Pace.

Matt feels that guitarists have a tendency to shy away from music education. As a teacher he stresses that students play with good technique, read music, study music theory and compose their own music. Correct playing techniques are the building blocks for all good guitarists. Without technique, instrumentalists tend to play carelessly and might even cause problems that can lead to injuries such as tendonitis or tennis elbow. Reading music is something every musician should know how to do. Unfortunately, the amount of guitar tablature available tempts many guitarists to learn to play without ever learning how to read music. Matt makes sure that all of his students learn to read music. He does not teach tablature nor will he teach cover songs until his students are well versed in reading and have a strong knowledge of chords. The study of music theory is used to help students understand the music they are playing and to fine tune the way they hear music through ear training. Finally, Matt encourages his students to apply everything they have learned by composing their own music. Students then have the opportunity to record their songs and perform them either solo or with other musicians at recitals which are offered twice a year.

To listen to some of Matt's music follow the links below:

Jon Arbuckle