Meet Matt Velasquez

Biography

Violist and violinist Matt Velasquez holds a Master of Music in Viola Performance from Southern Methodist University’s Meadows School of the Arts, where he studied under the guidance of violist Ellen Rose. He holds a Bachelor of Music from Texas State University, where he studied with Ames Asbell. He has performed internationally and throughout the United States as a recitalist and as an orchestral musician.

During his undergraduate studies, Matt served as the assistant principal violist of the Texas State Symphony Orchestra. He showcased his versatility by regularly performing in the first violins with the Starlight Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, he contributed his expertise as a Texas State University String Project teacher, mentoring young string players aged 5-12. He also acted as Vice President of the Texas State University ASTA (American String Teachers Association) Chapter. While completing his Master’s, he maintained a private studio of violin and viola students in the DFW areas.

Matt's playing garnered recognition, earning him a finalist position at the Texas State Symphony Concerto and Aria competition in both 2020 and 2021, representing the string area in the live finals. His musical journey also took him to Orlando, Florida, where he premiered Brian Balmage's composition, 'Greater Than,' at the 2020 ASTA Conference as part of the National String Project Consortium.

Furthermore, Matt actively participated in a summer excerpt festival, honing his skills under the guidance of esteemed viola faculty from the Cleveland Institute of Music. His dedication to his craft is highlighted by being the sole video recording of Granville Bantock’s Viola Sonata, 'Colleen.'

Away from his musical pursuits, Matt finds joy in diverse interests, including reading, shopping, cooking, painting, photography, golf, and gardening.