Matthew Stevens (musician)
Matthew Stevens (born 1982) is a Canadian jazz guitarist and composer.[1]
Matthew Stevens
Matt Stevens
January 8, 1982
- Musician
- composer
Guitar
c. 2004–present
- Whirlwind Recordings
- Crystal Math Music Group
Biography[edit]
Stevens was born on 8 January 1982 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and studied piano and guitar at a young age. Since graduating from Berklee College of Music in 2004, Stevens has established himself in the contemporary jazz scene performing and recording with numerous artists including Christian Scott,[2] Terri Lyne Carrington,[3] and Esperanza Spalding.[4]
Regarded to be one of "most exciting up-and-coming jazz guitarists" in his generation, Stevens was placed in the Rising Star Guitar Category of the 63rd Annual DownBeat Critics Poll.[5] His performances have been esteemed by numerous publications including Down Beat,[6] NPR,[7] Jazz Times,[8] Billboard,[9] and The New York Times.[10]
His debut album as a leader, Woodwork, received stellar reviews from critics including Down Beat,[11] All About Jazz,[12] and the Ottawa Citizen.[13] LA Weekly describes the album as "an amalgamation of modern jazz and neo-fusion elements which showcase ... sonic versatility and savvy producing chops".[14]
Stevens has toured extensively in the US, Canada, Europe, Asia, South Africa, and South America. He is also a member of the adjunct faculty at the New School and has taught workshops at the Maryland Summer Jazz Workshop, USC, and Berklee College of Music.[1]
Stevens currently resides in New York City, New York.[1]