The smoothest thing you'll hear all day
The violin is often referred to as the most human of all instruments, as a true musician can evoke emotion through it like none other. The artists willing to go through the grueling amount of practice hours to reach this level though, are few. This is why when we see a true talent like "Matt Violinist", it excites us quite a bit more than any other instrumentalist. Matt has gained a following from his play, which often repurposes popular music into a soulful rendition on the strings like only he can. It's no secret by now that Beethoven was inspired by a Black Violin player, and through Matt's still on the come up, he has the makings of a great name to remember in his own right. We chatted with him to hear about what else he has in the works currently as well as down the road a bit.
1. Where are you from? Does your hometown play a part in how you compose your music?I'm from the Bronx. Absolutely. The bronx has always been a melting pot of various cultures, musically and otherwise. No matter where I've moved to, despite the genre of music, the flavor of the Bronx has always stuck. Its a part of me.
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2. What separates you stylistically? What are somethings that make your style unique?
I have no desire to take the "traditional" route as a musician. Other musicians tend to focus on being flashy and intricate, stylistically and technically. My style is very melodic and simple so its familiar to my audience, easy to digest, and it resonates with them and thats what they love about.
3. What's your view on the outlook of violinists and other musicians like you by the general public? Do you think you guys should get more recognition for your talent?
No because if someone gets more popular than me, thats less work for me hahaha. Thats a loaded question. The general public tends to show violinists more love because there aren't that many of us out here in comparison to a pianist or a guitarist. They are so impressed by us, where as other musicians I feel are taken for granted considering there are so many of them.
4. What's on the schedule for you going forward? What are you working on?
I just released a music video, editing and creative directed by me, starring Stephan Marcellus from The Voice Season 13. I've been in the studio recording, working on an original album as well as securing touring dates and I'm constantly working on my craft. I do so many things (i.e. violin, DJ, videography, creative directing, dance, writing) and it can be a lot to juggle so I have to make sure I'm always improving on everything, which is a round the clock job within itself.
5. A young kid comes up to you and ask for some advice on being a violinist, what are you saying?
Don't do it unless you want a life of constant anxiety and frustration lol. No, but I can't tell someone how to walk their own path. No matter what any musician tells you, including me, no matter what you've learned or have been told, you just have to stick true to yourself. There's no secret to this game. You just have to be yourself.
