Matthew Felski, a Western New York Native, has early memories of being reprimanded by his elementary school teachers for tapping on his desk.  He practically drove his brother mad from the constant rhythmic fidgeting.

Fortunately through the local school music program and private instruction, Matt was able to direct this energy into the study of percussion.  Navigating through the world of rudimental drumming with the works of Charles Wilcoxon, and early on learning the fundamentals of drumset coordination, he became hooked.  

Years later as he began to study big band drumming, he finally understood why his elementary school teacher would always refer to him as Gene Krupa whenever he would tap away on the school desk.

Felski would continue his music studies at the University at Buffalo, earning a B.A. in music performance magna cum laude in 2005.  This same year he began his private teaching studio, working one on one with students looking to hone their musicianship. It was also around this time that Matt connected with the members of the band Lazlo Hollyfeld.  With this group he has written, recorded, and performed the groups original instrumental works.  The group undertook numerous national tours and continues to perform in Western New York.

Matt led a jazz quartet under his name in the mid 2000’s.  The group recorded and performed Standards from the American song book and featured many local talented musicians, performing in local clubs and music festivals.

Matthew has also been a long time member of the ensemble The Genkin Philharmonic.  This group, made up of a hybrid of acoustic chamber ensemble instruments and a contemporary rhythm section, has performed a wide array of unique music, including arrangements of works by progressive rock artists including Frank Zappa, King Crimson, and Rush and early 20th century composers such as Stravinsky, Gesualdo, Bartok, and Prokofiev. The group toured their unique show at various colleges and Universities of the North East where they undertook residences in which they worked with student composers and premiered works by faculty members.

Matt remains an active member of the music community.  He plays music in a wide range of genres around the Buffalo Music scene in groups such as Scarlet Begonias (Grateful Dead tribute Band), Serendipity Swing (Jazz Big Band), and The Joseph Michael Mahfoud Band (Blues, R&B, pop).

With his 20+ years of experience teaching, writing, and playing music, Matt is an exceptional guide for your musical journey. Contact Matt for a free consultation.