During his many years in San Francisco, Matt collaborated with various jazz and experimental musicians, including Ben Goldberg, Scott Amendola, Carla Kihlstedt, Myles Boisen, and Pamela Z. He was a founding member of Oranj Symphonette, which recorded two CD's for Rykodisc and went on to play many of the major jazz festivals, from Monterey to Montreal. Matt worked for several years as composer and cellist/bassist with Club Foot Orchestra, where he contributed to their pioneering live accompaniment of silent films and to Club Foot's soundtrack for the syndicated cartoon series The Twisted Tales of Felix the Cat. Additionally, Matt has had many eclectic musical adventures, including touring and/or recording with Tom Waits, Sheryl Crow, Dixie Chicks, Natalie McMaster, and Yo-Yo Ma.
Presently residing near Toronto, Matt performs with an array of jazz and improvising artists. Projects include Stretch Orchestra, a trio with guitarist Kevin Breit and percussionist Jesse Stewart. Stretch Orchestra's' eponymous CD won a JUNO Award for Best Instrumental Album of the Year. Matt is also a member of Ugly Beauties (with pianist Marilyn Lerner and drummer Nick Fraser). This trio has released two recordings to critical acclaim. Additionally, Matt performs occasionally with jazz pianist David Braid as the duo Brubeck Braid. Their CD, twotet/deuxtet was nominated for both a JUNO award and a National Jazz award. Brubeck Braid has toured Canada, as well as Australia and China.
Other collaborative activities include an EP with vocalist Caylie Staples, FR3Q co-compositions with electronic music producer Ken Harrison, improvisational outings with hurdy-gurdy genius Ben Grossman, and recordings/performances with Guelph’s own Silence Collective. In 2018 Matt completed his PhD in Music at York University, where he teaches a variety of courses including 20th century music, jazz strings, and contemporary improvisation. Matt is also on the faculty of the Bachelor of Music program at Humber College. (And, yes, he is the tallest son of Dave.)
Even more?.......... Industry Tactics Podcast--Matt interviewed by Friendly Rich