Whether drawing from works of classical literature, harmonic innovations of jazz, or the intricacies of contemporary music, Matthew Culbertson aims to take his listeners, students, and colleagues on a compelling musical journey. Mr. Culbertson’s overarching goal is to bring beautiful and exciting works, both old and new, to students and wider audiences.  Growing up surrounded by prominent musicians, teachers, composers/arrangers, and publishers, Matthew recognized the versatility and discipline that it takes to become a successful musician at a young age. He was privileged to study with wonderful teachers, conductors, and incredible musicians from the age of 8. Ms. Karen Merchant was Matthew’s first teacher and continues to be an important mentor. She encouraged him to express emotions and add his own interpretations. Mr. Culbertson accompanied bands, musicals, and choirs, church services, and learned other instruments for ensembles and orchestras. He was fortunate to spend summers in intensive study at Camp Encore/Coda in Maine, where he worked with distinguished pianists Andrei Baumann (Rivers School Conservatory), Cole Burger (Bowling Green State University), Jamie Saltman (Brookline, MA, Camp Director), as well as other notable musicians Paul Jones, and Kevin Norton.

Mr. Culbertson received his Bachelors’ Degree in Music from the John J. Cali School at Montclair State University where he studied primarily from Dr. Lisa Yui. He participated in Masterclasses and Workshops with the late Walter Hautzig, and Dorothy Taubman, as well as Olegna Fuchsi, Vadim Monastyrski, Steven Ryan, Wu Han, and David Witten. While at Montclair, Matthew also had the privilege of attending the Juilliard Evening Division and performing regularly under the supervision of David Dubal. At Montclair, Matthew took his skills and artistry to a new level. While learning aspects of “body-mapping,” through the Alexander technique and the Franklin method, Matthew improved his personal awareness and learned to perceive himself as an artist and creator, rather than an “interpreter” or “portrayer of other peoples’ music.”

Mr. Culbertson had the chance to work in the publishing industry as a librarian, engraver and editor, primarily as an employee of Subito Music Corporation. Mr. Culbertson has learned the legal and professional standards of the music industry, especially in terms of modern music, which has derived an inspiration for contemporary works, as evident in his world premiere of Roberto Sierra’s Piezas Sueltas No. 6 in December of 2017. 

Matthew has just completed his Masters in Music as well as a Professional Studies Certificate at the Boyer School of Music at Temple University studying under Dr. Charles Abramovic, specializing in Piano Pedagogy, Historical Performance Practice, and Collaboration. Mr. Culbertson was awarded a teaching assistantship while at Temple where he taught Secondary Piano and accompanied Vocal Literature. Finally, Mr. Culbertson has most recently been appointed as the accompanist for Neumann University’s Concert Chorale in Aston, PA. While maintaining a studio of over 20 students, Matthew exposes his students and peers to a wide variety of styles in different settings throughout the Philadelphia area.