Biography

Aged 33 Matt has played for over 120 different artists including Grammy nominated piano player Judy Carmichael, 60's chart topping band The Bachelors and several Tony nominated Broadway stars. Matt has also played in over 30 different theatre shows including Just My Imagination, Magic of Motown, The Elvis Years, The Best of Wham, and The Rat Pack Live!

Matt has spent over 600 days working in different show bands on the luxury cruise line Seabourn. Before finishing his time on ships Matt got to visit 6 continents of the world and has had the pleasure of playing with musicians from these regions including Chinese Dulcimer players, Argentine tango harp players and Australian Drag Queens. The variety and challenge of playing different styles of music with authenticity is something Matt relishes. 

Matt has actually played the drums since he was 4, performing at The Millennium Dome at the age of 10 and appearing on BBC 1 television’s ‘Blue Peter’ with his band at the age of 11. As well as teaching others to play drums Matt had already played more than 200 live shows with various bands by the time he was aged 16.

As a result of the recognition of his musical ability (which saw him awarded a ‘special achievement’ award from the Zildjian cymbal company aged 16) Matt Raymond was invited to commence his 3 year degree course at the London College of Music a year earlier than normal. There he studied with teachers such as Darryn Farrugia, Elliott Henshaw, Erik Stams and Hadyn Callow.  

Aged 20 Matt graduated with ‘First Class Honours’ at B.Mus degree level. Subsequently, in acknowledgement of his musical potential, the College awarded him a full scholarship to continue his post-graduate studies. He went on to complete a Masters degree in music performance (M.Mus) passing with ‘Merit’ in the autumn of 2011.

A highly competent and successful drum teacher, Matt has to date guided his students through more than 150 grade examination. As well as teaching privately Matt also teaches at two public schools.  

Seeking continual professional development for himself, Matt has continued to study his craft since graduating. He was a Bob Armstrong student for over seven years and has taken lessons with Pete Cater, Will Kennedy and Dave Weckl. 

Comfortable and extremely proficient in performing all styles of music, Matt has the ability to play to click, is a highly competent sight reader, has his own top quality equipment and transportation. 

Testimonials

"A very talented and versatile musician." Darryn Farrugia (B.B KIng, Carl Orr, Joe Cocker, Tom Jones) 

"Matthew has proven himself to be a valuable asset to the entertainment department. He is a strong musician with a positive attitude and strong work ethic. He has been a pleasure to direct and work alongside." Band Leader Seabourn Odyssey

"Matt exceeds the expectations of his job requirements. He exceeds within the criteria in quality, quantity and timeliness. He achieves results beyond those expected for the position. Looking forward in having the opportunity in working with Matt in the future." David E Greene Cruise Director on Seabourn

"In all of my years of teaching I have never met a more determined and conscientious student." Elliott Henshaw (Tony Christie, Shirley Bassey, Paul Anka, Bob Mintzer, Mike Stern)

"Matt has studied at Tech Music Schools for four years now and his dedication and work ethic have been remarkable" Erik Stams (Stu Hamm, Drill Queen, Walter Schreifels)