Nathan Matson

HISTORY:  Nathan Matson is a multipercussionist and instructor who focuses primarily on snare drumming, drum set and hand drums. Originally from Cody, Wyoming, he was bitten by the percussion bug at age 11 when he began lessons with the local drumming legend, Frank Raver. “Frank really taught me to respect the instrument and the art form. You had to work hard if you were going to study with Frank” Nathan says.   This then led to years of study from several different teachers. Consequently, Nathan was selected for three years straight to the prestigious Wyoming All-State Band. He then received a scholarship to study at the University Of Wyoming. Although he entered as music major he graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work degree.   He then worked for 7 years in the youth services field.  Still, the music stayed with him and he completed an Associate of Arts degree in music in 1997. Through-out it all Nathan has maintained a deep love and interest in world music especially Afro-Cuban and Arabic rhythm. Musical influences include Glen Velez, Poncho Sanchez, Hamza El Din, Steve Gadd and the great Alan Dawson.

PERFORMANCE: Nathan’s first professional gig was at age 16 playing drums in a local country rock band. He has literally been gainfully active as a musician ever since. Experience includes university and college ensembles and professional groups of all styles. He has been fortunate to get to utilize his skills playing both drumset and percussion. More recent Bellingham projects include the following:

Nathan can be heard on the following recordings:

TEACHING: For the last 10 years Nathan has maintained a busy private teaching program, instructing around 40 private students (kids & adults) per week in several different locations. His passion for his students is evident in that students regularly participate in school music programs, recitals and local musical groups. Over the years students have participated in All-State and Junior All-State Bands and the Bellingham Youth Jazz Band.   Several students have gone on to study music at the college level.

“My approach is to help each student to play the best that they can and feel good about their accomplishment.  I want them to feel as though they are a part of something great”. For more information on lessons contact Nathan at: NTMATSON@AOL.COM.  

Percussively Yours,

Nathan