Make music. Have fun. Find your sound.
One-on-one lessons for kids, teens, and adults getting started. We can begin with a favorite song, a beat, or an idea of your own, then build the skills to take it further. I come to your home in Berkeley and nearby towns.
Wesleyan music degree · Free intro call · Sliding scale available
Meet Matthew.
Find your starting point
What would you like to play?
From first notes to advanced drumming, lessons meet each student where they are. We’ll build listening, rhythm, and technique through music they want to play.
Drums & percussion
Beginner to advanced
Guitar
Beginner to intermediate
Bass
Beginner to intermediate
Trombone
Beginner to intermediate
Piano
Beginner
Ukulele
Beginner to intermediate
Songwriting
Turn an idea, a lyric, or a few chords into a song that sounds like you.
Recording
Record your music with me, or learn to record and produce it yourself.
Meet your teacher
Hi, I’m Matthew.
I’m a Berkeley musician and songwriter with a music degree from Wesleyan University. My roots are jazz drumming, folk guitar, and Beatles-inspired songwriting. I’m also the parent of a four-year-old in a Berkeley public school.
Wonderful teachers gave me a lifelong love of playing. Passing that joy on is one of the most meaningful things I can do. I follow each student’s interests, help them understand the music they love, and keep lessons fun.
How it works
I come to you.
Lessons are 30 or 60 minutes at your home in Berkeley or a neighboring town. We can discuss what fits your interests and experience.
For instrument lessons, students need their own instrument. Beginning drummers can start with a practice pad and sticks. Drum mutes can help keep a full kit quieter at home.
Want to record a song? I can record you or teach you how to record and produce your own music. Email me about your project for a session plan and price.
Per lesson. Travel within Berkeley is included; ask about nearby towns. Sliding scale available. Please ask when you email.
A little listening
Hear what I play and write
I wrote, sang, and recorded all five of these songs, and played every instrument you hear.
Get started
Let’s talk music.
Email me a sentence or two about yourself or your child and what you’d like to play. We can have a free phone call to say hello and answer questions before the first lesson.