Piano Teaching Philosophy
My goal as a mentor is to guide students toward becoming well-rounded musicians who find joy in both learning and artistic growth. A healthy, reliable technique is central to my approach, allowing students to play the piano with ease and strength. By building a strong technical foundation, I empower students to perform with confidence and expressive freedom.
My lessons integrate theory, ear training, sight reading, and historical context to help students deepen their connection to music. This holistic approach also fosters valuable life skills, including hard work, patience, goal setting, problem-solving, and collaboration. While each student is unique, I tailor my teaching to different personalities and learning styles, fostering both skill and personal expression while addressing areas that need growth.
I believe music is a powerful language, and my goal is to help each student discover their own musical voice—supported by the technique, musicianship, and confidence that make the journey of learning music truly worthwhile.
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.
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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.
