A graduate of the University of South Carolina School of Music, Matthew Smith has been playing and teaching the guitar professionally since 1995. Besides teaching at his popular studio location in Columbia SC, Matthew is also a faculty member at Newberry College where he teaches guitar courses, lessons, and ensembles. Matthew's years of performing and recording experience includes rhythm and lead guitar work in rock, jazz, blues, and country music styles as well as solo and ensemble performances on classical guitar. His flexible teaching style is suited for anyone that wants to either strum and sing songs, read music, play by ear, understand theory, or all of the above.
Matthew offers lessons that provide a well-rounded and structured approach to not only learning chords, but learning music. Although the skills required to play basic songs can be learned in just a few lessons, many students will continue their study for years.
Students will learn to read music, understand music theory, improvise, and perform songs or compositions. As the fundamentals are covered, students are also encouraged to bring in music they wish to learn.
Whatever type of guitar a student may choose to study, Matthew's unique and experienced approach to teaching encourages his students to learn the advantages of combining the techniques of all types of guitars.
Matthew Smith's Guitar Studio is conveniently located near Irmo, SC in Suite 204 of Charles Town Court, 6156 St. Andrews Road (directly across from Deno's and the Seven Oaks Shopping Center) — just minutes from I-26 and downtown Columbia.
Matthew is the sole owner of his studio and is therefore able to offer experienced and educated music instruction at much lower rates than academies or music stores. Additionally, students and parents have direct contact with Matthew, making it easy to manage scheduling conflicts or questions that may arise.
weekly 30 min. lessons
weekly 60 min. lessons
one 30 min. lesson
one 60 min. lesson