Matt Richards is currently the principal percussionist of the Missouri Symphony and a percussionist with the Midland-Odessa Symphony and Chorale. He has also performed with the Houston Symphony, Fort Worth Symphony, San Antonio Symphony, New World Symphony, Fort Wayne Philharmonic, Abilene Philharmonic, Big Spring Symphony, San Juan Symphony, Kaleidoscope Chamber Orchestra, Thousand Oaks Philharmonic, and the Downey Symphony. Matt completed a graduate certificate in percussion performance at the USC Thornton School of Music, studying under Jim Babor and Joe Pereira of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. In addition, he holds a Master’s degree from California State University, Northridge and a Bachelor’s from the University of California Santa Barbara. Matt was also an instrumental fellow of the National Orchestral Institute, Orchestra of the Americas, and Marrowstone music festival. You can hear Matt on the Naxos recording “American Classics” released in 2016. Matt has over ten years of teaching experience, ranging from middle school through college, with 4 years of experience in Texas Schools. He has had countless students make region bands, and much success in the All-state competition. His teaching style is known for its energetic and fun approach.