Hi. I’m Art Matthews and music has always been a very central and important part of my life. My father, Dr. Artie Matthews Sr. (1888-1958), was my first piano teacher, and because of him, I fell in love with ragtime, blues, jazz and classical music. Not only did I hear all of this music on 78 records and the technology of his day like wire recorders, I heard it played live at home and at our music school which he founded in 1921.

Here, I’m about to take a lesson and it looks like Mozart is coming up next. I learned the importance of study, practice and patience at a very early age. Rudiments, reading, repertoire and study are four of the main pillars upon which I was taught to base my musicianship. I learned the importance of developing a solid “left hand” which is required to play authentic ragtime music.  “Hey dad, which one of these notes is Middle C?” (:-)

Like my dad, I have dedicated the larger portion of my life to being a music educator and performer. Although I am now retired, I’m still actively involved in online music education by conducting live, truly interactive, face-to-face piano and music lessons with students from around the country and around the world via the Internet.

Come back soon to view the updated version of the video that used to be here. In the interim, here is my most current profile video.

Hey! I’ve gotta’ do something to keep my sanity, don’t I? Or maybe it’s too late!

Anyway, “Art’s Corner” is where you’ll find me posting and sharing my views and opinions on things related to piano lessons/practice and music education. I intend to keep things light, informative, and fun with such things as an occasional “Silly Games” contest where you can win a silly prize! Sound like fun? Then follow me. Please subscribe and watch for Art’s Corner #2 coming soon!