Matt Katz has been teaching private piano lessons since 1996. Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Matt moved to the Portland area in 2014 and established his local teaching practice the following year. He holds a BFA from SUNY Purchase in Audio Production and Composition and is a teaching member of the Oregon Music Teachers Association (OMTA).

Matt teaches piano and voice, as well as composition and music production for students interested in expanding their musical and creative skills. As a pianist and teacher, he works in a wide range of styles, including Baroque through contemporary classical repertoire, jazz, rock, pop, and other contemporary styles. He particularly specializes in improvisation and accompaniment, helping students develop the skills to move beyond the written page and become confident, versatile, and independent musicians.

A cornerstone of Matt’s teaching method is the combination of a strong foundation in music theory with collaborative music-making. He believes that understanding how music works gives students greater freedom to interpret, improvise, arrange, accompany, and communicate with other musicians. Whenever possible, he incorporates playing together into lessons so that students develop the listening, rhythmic, and interpersonal skills that are essential to making music with others.

Matt also enjoys working with students who want to combine singing and playing. Students can learn to accompany themselves at the piano while singing, accompany other vocalists or instrumentalists, or develop their piano and voice skills independently. Depending on each student’s interests and goals, lessons can incorporate music theory, chord theory, ear training, improvisation, arranging, and practical accompaniment techniques.

In addition to teaching, Matt has extensive professional experience as a touring backing musician, performing as both a keyboardist and backup singer. He also works as a music producer, arranger, accompanist, and composer. His background in performance, composition, and audio production allows him to bring a broad, practical perspective to his teaching and help students understand how the many different elements of music work together.

Matt enjoys working with students of all ages and abilities and adapts his teaching to each student’s experience, learning style, and musical interests. He believes that everyone has music in them and that there are many meaningful reasons to study music—whether for the joy of playing and singing, creative self-expression, collaboration with others, or professional aspirations. His goal is to help students develop strong musical skills while gaining the confidence, knowledge, and independence to find their own musical voice.