Matthew Richmond, percussion, started banging on his older brother's drumset at the age of 5. He joined the school band at 10 and never looked back. His education includes a Bachelor of Music (performance) from East Tennesse State University and a Master of Music (performance and composition) from Ithaca College.

Matthew has always aimed to be a versatile musician who could step into any musical situation. He has performed, taught, and composed in a wide variety of styles and settings, including rock, pop, jazz, ragtime, theater, orchestral music, chamber music, African drumming, salsa, steel band, marching band, and drum corps. He has recorded for Jazz Player and Saxophone Journal magazines as well as various rock and pop projects.Several of his classical compositions are published worldwide by Studio 4Music.

In addition to teaching at the Asheville Music School, Matthew is adjunct instructor of percussion at UNCA, and has previously directed the percussion program at A.C. Reynolds High School. He currently performs with the Asheville Symphony, the Symphony of the Mountains, Eroteme, Spies Among Us, and Stephanies id and Like Minded Trio ( http://www.likemindtrio.com/ ).

LESSONS WITH MATTHEW

Matthew accepts students of all ages and skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Students can study general percussion or focus on a particular instrument or style. Everyone is taught basic music reading and technical fundamentals, but beyond that the direction of study depends on the student's interests and abilities. Matthew also welcomes students interested in music theory and composition. Above all, Matthew believes that music should be fun, and he does everything he can to make sure that lessons are a positive and enjoyable experience.

Testimonials

My son has been attending Asheville Music School for about a year now, and he loves it. I have watched his confidence level rise significantly since he first began classes. His teacher, Matthew Richmond, is irreplaceable. He directs lessons according to my son's interest and ability and is gentle yet clear with his expectations. My son's young life has been greatly enriched by their interaction and the empowerment of self expression that has been opened to him through Asheville Music School.

J. Race

"My experience at the Asheville Music School and in particular with Matthew Richmond, has been exceptional. As a percussion instructor, he provides a strong combination of qualities. His knowledge, talent and experience as a musician and teacher is clearly profound yet his presentation and demeanor is modest and relaxed. I feel confident that I'm receiving high-quality instruction and at the same time know I have an instructor that really wants me to have FUN and enjoy my musical experience. As an adult student, who has wanted to play drums since childhood, Matthew and the Asheville Music School truly is helping me make a long-awaited dream come true!"

E.V. vonSeldeneck