Violin specialist with experience teaching students of all ages from beginner to advanced.

Find out more about Matthew

• When did you first develop a passion for music and your favourite instrument?

  I started to learn the violin at the age of 8. At first, it was tough and hard to make a good sound, but after a few years I began to progress and develop my skills. My first teacher taught me over skype and he helped me to reach grade 8 AMEB. This teacher was passionate about the violin and helped me to find my own passion for playing the violin.

• Is there a particular type music or artist that you listen to on a loop without it driving you crazy?

  I love Itzhak Perlman, I could listen to him play the Bruch concerto all day long. I also love listening to Mairead Nesbitt who plays the fiddle for Celtic Women.

• Explain to us the most difficult or 'riveting' lesson you could personally give to one of your students.

  Every lesson I give is designed to engage and motivate students. However, teaching the difficult techniques of vibrato and double stopping is always a challenging but rewarding experience!

• What do you think is the most complicated instrument to master and why?

  I think the violin is the most difficult instrument to master as it takes years of practice to gain muscle memory, develop pitch awareness, and learn techniques such as vibrato, spiccato, ricochet, and double stopping.

• What are your keys to success?

  Firstly, passion. If you have a deep love for the violin and a desire to play it beautifully, you will undoubtedly succeed. Secondly, discipline and hard work. Because the violin is such a difficult instrument, it takes years of practice to become proficient. The people who maintain consistency in practice are the ones that succeed. Finally, fun. If you enjoy the process of learning the violin and don't take yourself too seriously, this instrument will bring you some of the happiest moments of your life!

• Name three musicians you dream of meeting in your favourite bar in the early hours of the morning. Explain why.

  I would love to meet Itzhak Perlman because he was one of the professional musicians that inspired me to develop my violin skills.
  It would be incredible to meet Ray Chen, one of the greatest violinists in the 21st century.
  Finally, I would love to meet the violinist Hillary Hahn because she has the most perfect phrasing, vibrato and style.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your musical journey, or your days at 'music school'.

  During my Bachelor of Music, I learnt many important lessons around expression, dynamics, tone, developing perfection of intonation and style. However, the one lecture that resonated with me the most focused on audience engagement and the importance of interacting with the audience over only focusing on the technical aspects of the music.

• What are the little touches that make you a Superprof in music?

  I am passionate about the violin and helping people to learn this beautiful instrument. I am also a professional violinist with years of performing and teaching experience. Finally, I am constantly looking to improve my craft through seminars, critical analysis of my playing using recording technology, and research into new violin innovations.