Piano Teaching Philosophy
My goal as a mentor is to guide students toward becoming thoughtful, well-rounded musicians who find both joy and purpose in music-making. Central to my teaching is the development of a healthy, reliable technique that allows students to play with ease, confidence, and expressive freedom.
Drawing from my extensive training and performance experience, I integrate technique, theory, ear training, sight reading, and historical context to build strong musicianship and a deeper understanding of the repertoire. I tailor each lesson to the individual student’s goals, personality, and learning style, encouraging both discipline and creativity while addressing areas for growth.
Beyond piano study, I strive to cultivate patience, focus, curiosity, problem-solving, and artistic confidence. An important part of my teaching is helping students develop independence, active listening skills, and the ability to self-correct thoughtfully and efficiently in their own practice. I believe music is a powerful form of communication, and my goal is to help every student discover their own musical voice through a strong technical and musical foundation.
Voice Coaching Philosophy
As a vocal coach, I base my work on mutual respect, honesty, and the conviction that every student is a developing artist who deserves individualized instruction. Informed by extensive work with opera singers and administrators, private study with three prolific opera artists, and a doctoral minor in vocal pedagogy, I ground my coaching in the ultimate goal of using one’s instrument to communicate clearly, expressively, and organically in service of the music.
Drawing on my background in voice pedagogy, I integrate voice science and functional pedagogy alongside musical and stylistic work. Principles of efficient, healthy singing—including posture and alignment, coordinated breath support, efficient phonation, balanced resonance, clear articulation, and effective registration—are addressed and adapted to each singer’s unique physiology, history, and artistic goals.
By clearly explaining the purpose behind each exercise and tool, I invite students into an active, collaborative learning process. Because singing is a communicative art, I prioritize both vocal health and expressive freedom across musical styles and periods. My aim is to cultivate an environment of curiosity, transparency, and evidence-based feedback, where clients develop sustainable technique and a confident, authentic artistic identity.
Teaching Experience
Matthew is a member of MTNA University of Houston Collegiate division.
Vocal Coach (2020-present)
Private Piano Instructor (2012-present)
Moores Opera Center (2024-present)
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Rehearsal pianist, Vocal coach
Annunciation Orthodox School (2025-present)
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Piano instructor
Overture School of Music (2023-present)
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Piano instructor
Sugar Land Music School (2023-2024)
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Piano instructor, Vocal coach
Florida State University (2020-2023)
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Secondary piano instructor, Chamber music instructor
Mason’s School of Music, Dance and Arts After School (2022-2023)
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Piano instructor
Brigham Young University (2018-2020)
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Secondary piano instructor, Class piano instructor
Preparatory School at Lynn University Conservatory of Music (2016-2018)
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Piano Instructor
Meeting Options
The sessions are tailored towards your goals. These sessions involve dynamic explorations of various techniques, music theory, ear training, and repertoire building.