Matt Twaddle

8 Years Teaching Experience

INSTRUMENTS

PianoAdvanced
GuitarBeginner
BassIntermediate

GENRES

ClassicalJazzPopRock

LANGUAGES

English

Mentor Mission Statement

My mission is to help students grow by giving them the tools, encouragement, and confidence to achieve what may seem impossible—because with hard work, curiosity, and perseverance, it truly is attainable.

about Matt

Matt Twaddle’s connection to music began the first time he heard the Beatles. Something about their sound pulled him in completely — he felt the instinctive urge to move, listen deeper, and get lost in the music. From that moment on, music became one of the primary ways Matt understood the world and expressed himself.

Growing up with a mother who was a music teacher, Matt was surrounded by music from an early age and began piano lessons at just four years old. Those early lessons laid a strong foundation, but everything changed when he received his first guitar at age ten. Watching Back to the Future and seeing Marty McFly perform “Johnny B. Goode” sealed the deal: Matt knew he wanted to be a musician! His grandfather, a jazz musician, became another important influence, encouraging him to play and even inviting Matt to perform with his big band while he was still in high school.

Like many musicians, Matt has experienced moments of challenge and reflection along the way. Those experiences strengthened his appreciation for the mentors who guided him and inspired his own passion for teaching.

At ROOTS Academy, Matt enjoys helping students recognize their own progress. He focuses on breaking concepts into manageable steps so confidence can grow naturally as skills develop. Watching students experience those “aha” moments — when something finally clicks — is one of the most rewarding parts of his work.

Outside of ROOTS, Matt performs, composes, and produces music, with several albums released under his name.

Teaching Philosophy

Every musician has their own unique voice, just as every person possesses their own personality unique to themself. Therefore, my philosophy as a teacher is to help my students become the musicians they want to become by discovering their voice, and creating music that allows them to express themselves to the fullest. Every student is different, but it is my job as a mentor to guide and provide them with the tools necessary for their own musical growth no matter their age, skill level or musical goals.

What’s been the highlight of your professional career — like your biggest spotlight moment to date?
“The highlight of my professional career so far when I had the opportunity to work with legendary drummer Dennis Chambers, who recorded on an original composition of mine entitled “TB” which was released as part of my 2nd album “Subsequential Happenings.” Dennis’ resume spans over thousands of artists and records, and he is someone that I’ve looked up to since I was a kid. Having the opportunity to work with him and feature him on one of my own creations was truly a dream come true.”

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?
“Being a mentor means to inspire and guide students to reach their true potential. I am excited to step into this role because I want to have a positive impact on my students and help them achieve things they may not have thought they could otherwise.”

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?
“I grew up listening to all styles of music – my dad had a vast collection of CDs, vinyls, and cassette tapes spanning across all genres. As a result, I was exposed to a wide variety of music at a very young age. Having access to and being exposed to so much different music at an early age demonstrated to me all of the possibilities and opportunities that music presents. As a result, I became excited to experiment and use my imagination to create my own art.”

Where is your favorite local spot? 
“My favorite local spot is the Music City Bikeway – I love being outdoors and finding my place in nature;I find a lot of creative inspiration from being out in nature.”

What’s your go-to karaoke song?
“‘The Reason’ by Hoobastank”

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Beyond the Notes: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

Emily Lindsey – Music Director
Josh Ashley – Systems & Strategy Manager
Marta Palombo – Music Operations Coordinator
Kinsey Overdeer – Scheduling Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator