My music is an explorative collage of rhythm and harmony that incites emotion, creating a wild and memorable experience for listeners. I source inspiration from an array of influences, ranging from Miles Davis, to The Beatles. My musical pieces are born during a 3–4 hour session at the piano, and refined through excessive scribbling, and endless rehearsing.

 

After I first received my Bachelor's Degree from CSU Fullerton, I opted to showcase my original music through distinct outlets. One of the resulting projects, themattsmithneujazztrio, has recorded three full-length records; my other project, JUICEBOX, has recorded two. I gained a masters of music in jazz drum set from California Institute of the Arts, where I was honored to record my own composition for the CalArts, 30th Annual Jazz CD at Capitol Records. 

 

In the past year, I have expanded my professional development to work as an educator, and a scholar of music. Alongside CalArts colleagues, I was employed as a citizen artist with Americorps, teaching students beginning music at Dorsey High School in South Central, Los Angeles. Following this, I was invited to participate in a summer program at the beautiful campus of Ravinia, Illinois, where I worked with jazz artists Billy Childs, and Rufus Reid.