Masterclass: Matthew Struthers, Jazz Piano

Piano Masterclass

Ever wondered how to improvise? Come check out our newest piano faculty member, Matthew Struthers as he teaches basic improvisation. All are welcome!

Matthew Struthers Bio

Matthew has been involved with music his entire life, starting with a piano career which has been ongoing for over 15 years. He received his Masters of Music in Contemporary Performance (Production Concentration) from Berklee College of Music, in Valencia Spain, and a Bachelors in Music with emphasis in Commercial Music from Snow College.

He is also a self-taught guitarist, active songwriter, and transcriber. These experiences have led him to be able to enjoy many different opportunities including performing with Josh Groban, Gary Willis, Victor Mendoza, We Don’t Sleep Quartet, Carl Allen, Josh Wheatley, and Jon Schmidt. 

During his time at Berklee, Matthew had the wonderful opportunity to record a session with Patrice Rushen, covering Jaco Pastorius’ Come On, Come Over. In 2017, he began working as editor for LA East Studios, splicing music into various lengths for commercial spots, and promos. In 2018, he began working on a 3 track Funk Fusion album to be released in 2019. He has also worked as a composer for the 2015 documentary To The Moon and Back, as well as the soon to be released Fatal Distraction with director and producer Susan Morgan Cooper.

Matthew is an exceptional keyboard player with experience playing Rhodes, Hammond Organs, Clavichord, and various analog and digital synthesizers. He is also very well versed in many different styles, including R&B, Jazz, Funk, Fusion, and Rock. His main influences include Billy Joel, Stevie Wonder, and Monty Alexander. Other influences include the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and Michael Jackson.

Event Details

How can I attend?

All current Gifted Music School students are invited (and encouraged) to attend at no cost—no tickets or RSVP required. Members of the public wishing to observe this masterclass should contact Interim Conservatory Director, Shenae Anderson, at sanderson@giftedmusicschool.org to RSVP. The event will be held in the Leon and Karen F. Peterson Building at Gifted Music School.