Biography
Born in the UK, Michael Matthews’ flamboyant and expressive performances are placing him at the forefront of the young generation. He has been praised for a rigorous technique alongside his natural creativity by leading figures in the field. His concerts are communicative, unpredictable and provocative. He brings a new identity to traditional repertoire as well as verve and dynamism to contemporary and lesser-known works. In his youth, Michael studied with teacher and performer Rob Johns. He has subsequently performed in recitals, masterclasses and competitions across the country and abroad. From 2021, Michael continues his postgraduate studies at the Royal Academy of Music under a scholarship. In the spring of 2017, Michael gave his debut performance of Joaquin Rodrigo's Concerto de Aranjuez and performed Fantasia para un Gentilhombre in 2019. In 2018 Michael was chosen by the Tillett Trust to give recitals across the UK during the 2018/2019 season. He was also selected by the Concordia Foundation to perform in outreach projects and recitals in central London and abroad. In 2019-2020 Michael studied with Paolo Pegoraro at the Segovia Guitar Academy in Pordenone, Italy. In 2019 Michael was awarded the Sir John Manduell Prize at Bromsgrove International Musicians Competition for the best performance of a contemporary work. He was supported by Help Musicians UK in 2020 and was selected by Talent Unlimited and the Countess of Munster Trust trust in 2021. Recent engagements include giving masterclasses at St Andrews and Hull universities and recitals at Brighton Festival, King’s Lynn Festival, St James’s Church Piccadilly and his debut appearance at the Wigmore Hall.
