Hotwired Testimonials
We are fully aware that testimonials don’t count for much these days as many of them are fabricated. However, the following testimonials are genuine and are either from colleagues of Mat’s or from students who have attended his courses. The students’ experience levels ranged from absolute beginner to music degree level.
Professional Quotes
Mark Sayer-Wade (MD - Music Sculptors)
Mat worked with us on a number of different projects both as a composer and arranger. His diverse musical talent paired with his creative ability when under pressure made him an indispensable part of the team. His dynamic personality will definitely inspire those who attend any of his courses, so I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending anyone to sign up for the Mat McKinley experience!
Chris Demetriou - Producer (Hons - Royal Northern College of Music - worked with Trevor Horn, Sugar Babes, Seal, Kylie, Lisa Stansfield)
Two Words: "Musical Genius". After all my years of studying at one of Europe's top music colleges, Mat by far, has made the most lasting impression on me. His teaching methods are AMAZING! This guy has definitely got the gift. Having composed, programmed and performed on many hits, you couldn't get anyone better!
Paul Elliott - Drummer (performed with Frank Gambale, Shaun Baxter, Stu Hamm, Manu Katche, Steve Smith, Mark Mondesir - ex principal instructor at Drum Tech London)
Mat has programmed many clinic tracks for me over the last 10 years, and you can take it from me that his programming expertise is simply fantastic. If you want to know how to program to the highest professional standard, then buy his books - you won't be disappointed.
Alex Burak - Engineer and teacher (engineering credits include - Curiosity killed the Cat , Hugh Masekela, Soft Cell, Roger Chapman, Julian Cope, The Special AKA)
Mat McKinley!! Hey what a great guy. What Mat doesn't know about music probably hasn't been written down. A true talent. A patient practitioner and a lovely guy. This man is seriously "Hot Wired"
Neil Pickles - Pro Tools Lecturer and free lance engineer
Mat's music and teaching methods really do work. I strongly advise anyone contemplating a career in any kind of music genre, or someone wishing to further their music understanding, to enrol on Mat's course or buy his books. It will be one of the best investments you will ever make. Guaranteed.
Chris Huant - Alchemea Curriculum Director
Mat has been teaching at Alchemea College of Audio Engineering in London for 9 years as a freelancer and every time he teaches a new class, the students come out of his lectures exhilarated and enlightened. Without fail, they comment on Mat's "Godlike" musical skills and keyboard abilities, as well as (more seriously) his teaching methods. He is probably the best teacher we have here. He is friendly, relaxed and very funny! His method is unique among all of the music teachers I've encountered and he manages to motivate our students, who study mainly the engineering side of music production, with ease. Considering some of them have never studied music or have been disappointed or "turned off" by previous music lessons and teachers, this is no small feat! Mat is brilliant and here, for the first time, he puts down his unique method for the benefit of all in a friendly format (Hotwired "Live") full of interactive goodies. I'm sure everyone can benefit from this, whether you are an amateur musician looking to further your skills or an experienced musician looking to broaden your musical palette, or an engineer wanting to learn the ropes.
Mike Sinnott - Alchemea College Director
Alchemea are proud to have been working in partnership with Mat for over 8 years. His lectures are an invaluable addition to our Diploma course. His unique interactive teaching methods ensure that students quickly grasp the fundamentals of music composition and theory. His dynamic and friendly personality means that classes are intensive but also good fun. Mat's new books are a must for anyone with an interest in making music and we are looking forward to running his new short course.
James "Woody" Woodburn (Senior Recording Product Manager at Mackie)
The best keyboard player I've seen - Great musician, composer and programmer. Brilliant teacher as well!!
Bob Lipman - bass player and composer (New York, France)
Mat's bass guitar demos could show many real bass players how to master their instrument.
Jorg Sweikowski, guitar teacher (various music schools in Germany)
What I like about Mat is his imagination on the piano and the way he can adapt his way of thinking for different instruments. As a guitarist, I found his approach to the guitar to be amazing for a keyboard player.
Student Quotes
Here are just a few of many testimonials taken from the last few group classes and Hotwired courses that Mat has held.
Sean O'Connor (Hotwired Music Production Pack)
I purchased the hotwired music production pack and have found it very refreshing in that you are not constrained to a single approach to learning the craft of music. The necessary information sticks and the pack makes for a good refresher as well.
Carl Peabody (Hotwired Frazzle)
Stunning!!!!! This really says it all.
Mark Dale
The lessons on music theory with Mat have been incredibly insightful. Each lecture left me feeling more creative and enthusiastic than I have ever thought in the past. Apart from his exceptional talent musically, Mat was also very capable of engaging our class and opening up our minds to the idea that music can be accessible by anyone and easily be original. His classes were highly valued and inspirational.
Victor Fernandez
Even though my first language is not English, I could still understand all of the music ideas. It was a good experience to make a big idea of what music theory is. Also the programming class was very useful for me. Great teacher, good explanations and clear ideas.
Charlotte Laing
If I had been taught half of this when I first started learning music it would have made it a lot simpler to understand and would have made me more interested to learn more. Amazing lessons - left me the most motivated I have been about playing music in a long time.
Mustafa Bale
With Mat, I learned and understood basic music scales and chords just with 3 lessons. I'm not talking specifically for the speed, but the way he is teaching: easy and definitely not boring as a classic music study. He is very positive and intuitive music person motivating and pushing you to always get better. Thank you Mat.
Simon Pratt
Inspirational, informative, only negative part of the lessons is when they finish. Wish I could have learnt this way from a young age.
James Kirk
This is the kind of education that I would have wanted when I was at school. Mat has found a unique way of teaching music that makes it so much more accessible and easier to learn and absorb. Genius.
Stephen Davis (Hotwired Spark)
Thanks again Mat for the unbelievable session. I learned so much during the day. I have to admit, I did wonder if it would be possible to fulfill what you said in such an intense learning experience, but you did it. Quite incredible. I'm so positive now with the information I have at my disposal, I can't stop writing music, nor do I want to stop writing it. I have so many ideas and I'm so happy :) Cheers!
Daniel Ambrose (email) Hotwired Spark
Hi Mat it's Daniel. I had a session with you just under a month ago, and I just have to say thanks again! Since our session, I've applied myself to the production packs quite vigorously and I'm just amazed at how much better I've gotten at playing music. The amount of chord progressions and phrases/voicings I've come up with in this past month is quite unbelievable and I've only made it through the first pack! I'm very enthusiastic about what the future holds for myself in terms of music and I would like to use this opportunity to massively thank you again. All the best, Daniel
Francisco Ulloa
Mat is a genius. He inspired me to not give up on learning how to play. I have never learned how to play any instrument but this gave me a kick in the right direction. Thank you for the inspiration and good luck in the future. Best regards Francisco
Michael Stringfellow
Mat has an amazing talent for teaching what could be a boring subject in an inspiring fresh new way 10/10.
David Goldsmith
Cheers Mat, unbelievably well taught considering I'm an absolute beginner. Will definitely be purchasing your range of books and look to get 121 teaching with you in the future. Best of luck......
Alex "Gronk" Mounsey
Mat is an inspiring teacher with the ability to communicate musical concepts to the beginner and expert with clarity and infectious enthusiasm. Nice one!
Alex Constantinou
Extremely helpful lectures; like doing a whole school music course in just a few days. Everything was broken down to its simplest form and made so easy to understand. Inspirational.
Chris Holloway
Mat has literally opened my eyes to a world of compositional and scale based music, all of which was a complete bore before his lectures.
Guy Joyner
I attended Mat McKinley's lectures at Alchemea College and found them to be thoroughly enjoyable and very informative. The lectures were presented with a high degree of enthusiasm and professionalism and I learned a whole new way of looking at music.
Pablo Rihon
I've tried many times to learn about music theory on my own with stuff I found on the internet. Most of the time I couldn't understand what was going on. After Mat's lectures I can say I understand more than I could on my own. Mat makes it easy and practical. I also appreciate the psychological side of the lectures which I think are really important. Now I've got the basis to keep going on. Thanks Mat, good luck and see you soon hopefully.
Daniel Taborga
Although having a minor in music, the courses have been very helpful in refreshing previous knowledge and in strengthening basic understanding. Clearly the teacher has an extensive knowledge and well thought out plan in his teaching method.
Gianmarco Cucchiara
Everything has been amazing. Every time I finish your lecture, I wanna go home and compose something. You made us believe we can do it, if we really believe it. Thank you for everything and if you're gonna teach music in your own school let me know because later on I want to learn piano and composition. You really can do everything! Bye and thank you.
John Dent
As a mature student at Alchemea and having dabbled with guitar and keyboards since the mid seventies, I found Mat's lessons inspiring and underpinned and gave meaning to a lot of the things I had picked up myself.
Soni Shonibare
I have had several lectures with Mat and they were very interesting and inspiring. Mat is an excellent tutor and very dynamic in presentation. I thoroughly enjoyed the classes.
Matei Mircea
One of the most interesting classes at Alchemea was the music theory. Being interested in how to compose music, I've learned a lot of things from Mat McKinley. He makes things easy to understand and fun. I liked a lot that he also spoke about the psychological part of music - Would be great to have a lot more of his classes. Great Teacher!
Ajinkya Patil
I really enjoyed the lectures with Mat. The style of teaching is really simplified and he makes the topics a lot more interesting to understand. Had an excellent time learning.
Ben Holmes
Very Inspirational Lectures
Geoffrey Wright
I really enjoyed music classes with Mat. They really leave you feeling inspired and feeling capable of expanding your musical ability. His approach to teaching has helped me grasp a lot of musical concepts that I had trouble with before.
Mike Costa
Mat should be seen as a major influence to all music schools in terms of teaching methods. Everything he says just flows into your brain; even some advanced techniques that you would think will take years to understand. Personally I have tried to keep myself away from music school rules and doing things in a specific way. Mat was a bridge for me, a bridge to improve all the theory and technique while leaving my creativity and musical freedom untouched. Thank you Mat.
Vinit Gala
It was an amazing theory lecture for music with Mat. I was learning keyboard back in India for 4 years but the 4 lectures with Mat was really very informative and helpful. I am planning to join for private tuition with Mat. He has got an amazing knowledge in music. That was impressive. Good luck.
Sam Dufosse
I have learnt a lot from within this last week. I rarely get entertained whilst in a lecture, but Mat delivers literally a superb performance when teaching. The way Mat words things on reading music and his way of simplifying music theory makes it a lot easier for me to understand **** :-)
Tom S
Creative teaching - never a boring moment - Demonstrations were shown with quality - Highly beneficial - highly experienced - Definitely recommended.
Stefan Leissner
I have attended Mat Mckinley's course which I enjoyed very much. He is a great teacher and he makes sure that everybody understands what he explains. I can only recommend him.
Manuel Andersson
The way Mat talked about music was inspiring. I think he taught me a lot of the words and letters that I need for speaking the music language. I even told my father and the little he understood from that he was very happy to know that I was enjoying all these intensive learning hours. Good luck to you Mat.
Nitish Pharse
Excellent music teaching, especially regarding the Drum Programming. Gives hope for the future music world. A creative mind can make a whole world of music.
Nicholas Webster
I am a student at Alchemea college in Angel and Mat has given us music theory lessons all of this week in 4 x 3 hour lectures. His teaching style is fantastic, his enthusiasm and knowledge of the subject is genuinely second to none. I've looked forward to every lecture and Mat has taken so much time to teach his ideas and vast knowledge. His books, I have no doubt, will be equally fascinating and useful for any budding producer or composer. He has a great teaching style which is full of enthusiasm, passion and consideration for the pupil.
Nick Gladwin
I enjoyed Mat's teaching style, everything was explained and demonstrated in a clear fashion and gone over if I didn't understand it. His diagrams and teaching showed me the versatility of the piano. I've learnt a lot in a short space of time.
James
I really enjoyed the lessons. It was really helpful to understand what the mistakes in my music were. Although this was just 4 days, I feel that I have improved a lot. Thank you!
Luca Romani
Mat has got great teaching technique, very well orientated, in my opinion towards improvisation. Everything seems so easy, even with as complex a subject as composition. Looking forward to having more advanced lessons.
Ivan Kralev
This week I had a couple of lectures with Mat McKinley. We've learnt about chords, scales, intervals, keyboard playing techniques etc. Just in three lectures, Mat managed to teach me the basic principles of music. This was totally beneficial because of my lack of music theory knowledge.
Chris Stein
A simple clear way of opening up the possibilities of how much fun music can be.
Christopher Gatt
I had Mat as a lecturer. He is fantastic and he really knows how to explain music in a very simple way that even a grade 1 child can understand.
Mystery Man
Mat is great! I've learned many many things in a few days.
Nicolas
I’ve learnt a new way of teaching harmony, more easy to understand and faster. It was great. Merci!
David Evers
He knows music and he can teach it so that I can understand it. Mat is a cool teacher!! :-)
Aiman M Yahuhi
Easy understanding, great explanation. Great teacher. Open and broadminded. Music theory in a practical form is hard to understand but after Mat's explanation, it is really straight forward.
Cem Serter (via email)
I'm a self-taught composer and I've been playing guitar, keyboards and drums for the past 11 years and have dreaded every music theory lesson I've ever had because I found it so boring and irrelevant and none of it ever stuck with me. Mat has taught me more theory in less than 15 hours than I learned in over a decade, in a way in which everything makes sense and follows logical patterns and sequences. He definitely has created a unique method of teaching that is practical, fun and interesting and I will not be surprised when he revolutionizes how music is taught in schools, much like Jamie Oliver did with food, raising an entire generation of keen and creative musicians. Thanks Mat! - Cem Serter
Perry Trollope
The series of music theory lectures were very awesome. Rather than feeling unmotivated to come into school, I felt quite eager to get back into the classroom to learn more or understand a subject better. I feel a lot more comfortable with my knowledge and musical creation skills. Very inspiring even to my girlfriend at home who I told everything to. She is a jazz singer.
David Royse
Mat is a fantastic teacher - Inspiring and professional! His techniques are different and better than anything I've come across before and it's been a great experience having him as a teacher.
Richard Harris
I have just finished a small set of music theory lectures with Mat. They have been incredibly useful and informative, tackling the main aspects of how music is put together. He is a very gifted communicator and has given concise and imaginative lectures. Above all however I have learnt more about music theory in these short lectures than I have throughout my whole schooling. Highly recommended.
Jack Powell
Very engaging in lectures and has a lot of knowledge when answering questions from students. Have honestly learnt more theory in the past 3 days than the last 3 years of music technology at my previous college.
Andy Shepherd
I have learnt more in the past 3 days than I have in the last 4 years in school. I feel really inspired. I can go out there and create music from having no musical experience before. Vibrant and exciting to say the least.
Matthew Doughty
Extremely inspiring! Opened my mind to a new way of thinking about music theory and composition.
William Riddell
Very interesting lectures. I learnt more about music theory in 4 lessons than I did in 2 years of A level music tech. I enjoyed it very much.
Moni Sigurdsson
Immediately after each class with Mat I went home to practice my keyboard chops and managed to write some amazing new material. He is a truly inspirational teacher. He has taught me to always push the boundaries when it comes to music. I believe that everyone that attends his class will come out as a better musician. I know that I did. Very Inspirational.
Adam Bennett
Inspiring, Original and Brilliant. Mat's obvious skill on the keyboard translates to his teaching and I've yet to meet a student that hasn't loved his lectures.
James McNeill
I quit piano lessons around 15 years ago because it was far too structured and it was a process of jumping through hoops. Mat's emphasis in the lessons I've had with him so far has been focused more towards the creative side and the enjoyable aspects of music which in my eyes makes learning easier. If I had Mat as my teacher back then, there's no doubt I would have carried on. He tries to make you think in different ways whilst still establishing a good grounding in theory behind it. Very good teacher and also very experienced, thanks.
Coskun Akmeric (via email)
Hi Mat, I'm writing to tell you that how much I've enjoyed your Music Theory lectures at Alchemea. Even though I'm involved in music since the early ages and took both classical piano and guitar lessons, I never got to understand the logic behind scales and chords. Thanks to your unique method of teaching, now I'm very comfortable with all types of chords and all scales and their modes. I really think that your method is more effective than classic learning methods and also unquestionably much more fun. I'm looking forward to the lectures in January and hopefully one-on-one lessons after that. Best regards, Coskun Akmeric
Christian Cogley
Before coming to Alchemea I spent 4 years studying at Edinburgh University and attended hundreds of different lectures across a wide range of disciplines. The last few lectures with Mat have been the most informative and interesting I've ever been to. His innovative teaching and creative approach have really helped me to grasp some of the more difficult musical concepts.
Jaya M
Very much enjoyed the classes as was a totally different approach to classical theory - much easier to grasp than traditional teaching methods. Drum programming techniques also inspiring. Demonstrated the creative opportunities available solely with a keyboard.
Sebastian Acosta
It's a really interesting and unique way of approaching music. Makes it easier to understand things that usually take more time. Helps your creativity flow.
Raffy Bushman
I had three music lessons with Mat. I found the lessons both informative and engaging.
Steven Peck
Mat has a unique way of teaching music theory which is interesting and enjoyable. Having never played the keys before, understanding chords and scales has never been easier.
Roger Villa
I just had lectures with Mat, I found his lectures very interesting. In my opinion, he is a very good musician - I think he is amazing. The way he teaches us is easier to understand.
Dan Hopwood
A fantastic and original way of being taught music theory. After trying to understand the basic concepts behind theory for far too long, I have finally begun to grasp it and have thoroughly enjoyed Mat's lectures.
Milica Sucevic
I really enjoy in every lecture that we had. It is very interesting and very different from all things I've ever heard. Time passed so quickly because it was never boring. English is not my first language but if I didn't understand something it will be a pleasure to repeat it again. These lectures really inspired me and stimulated my imagination. Always unique :)
Jason Smith
I am still using your books as reference and can't see myself leaving them out of my site!
Vitor Vilela
Mat, you are a very good instructor ! Thanks for the classes at Alchemea
Mark Baidya
I am so glad you talked about creative visualization techniques, I can relate better to what you were taking about now that I have been scoring this past week for a documentary for Save the Children USA regarding preschool. Thanks for the inspirational pathfinder.
Giulio Scimone
"Hi Mat! Your lectures have been very inspiring to me, still trying to find all the time needed to work your great tips out for the benefit of my songs! Have a good weekend"
Paul Donnellan (Hotwired Spark)
Got alot out of the day and was impressed with the material and presentation. Great reference tool.
Mike Millington (Hotwired Spark)
I am finding the reading very intuitive, and the wording does make you want to read further, which is great as most books on music etc can be very dry and feel more like you are reading a manual. Thanks again.
Pete Prokopin
I found Mat's teachings very clear and I have learnt more than I have on previous courses. Cheers for all the knowledge.
Matt Kern
I have gained as much confidence with basic music theory in four lectures with Mat than I have previously with full music courses. Very beneficial.
Pedro Ribero
Amazing teacher, puts it as simply as it gets. I feel that I have learnt in a week what it would take years to learn. I came here with no knowledge of music theory at all. Now I think I have some tricks up my sleeve. A one man one keyboard band.
Renato Martinho
In just 4 days I learnt more about music theory than in a whole year of guitar music theory lessons. The approach to drum programming area is also quite revolutionary in the way that it gets you, from the first minute, to actually learn and apply real practical skills to work on your fingering techniques.
Eric Najar
What Mat's course is all about: an easy way to understand a lot of new things that seem complicated.
Irfan Amin
Mat's teaching method is fantastic! He really knows his stuff and is almost as good a theory teacher as he is a player - his years of experience in the music industry and as a classically trained musician really shine through. As an ex-teacher myself, his knowledge, creativity and flair have really inspired me - great job Mat and thanks.
Christos Tzoumarkiotis
I've never seen a teacher with so high knowledge and he can play excellent piano. He teach us with the most quick way and he knows how to play all kinds of instruments on keyboards.
Dave Evans
Excellent teacher especially on drum programming. Have learnt a lot from Mat in this class especially on making more "acoustic" sounding music on the computer as this was something that I would struggle with before and has opened the door with what can be made electronically.
Will Harding
Course was very beneficial and has a lot of useful information vital for music production. Friendly and very helpful. Thanks for the lectures.
Julian Horn
I especially enjoyed Mat's unconventional approach to teaching music theory. He can really make it understandable to someone with NO prior knowledge at all.
Emma "TK" Roydon
Really well explained concepts within lectures. All the technical information that was explained was also explained as to how we could apply these techniques within a practical musical environment. Also, inspiring music talent.
Tom Holdsworth
Mat makes learning music theory a breeze. It was fun, interactive and so easy to figure out.
Chris Haines
An inspiring teacher who has demystified many aspects of music theory for me.
Timur Turisbekov
One of the best teaching methods. Managed to inject brain with 1000 years of music making techniques in several days. Definitely will buy book.
Tim Wheeler
Absolutely brilliant! Everything is made simple and delivered with real passion.
Sean Keating
Mat taught me the same amount of information that I had learned in 4 years, in 3 days. He also taught me how to use it in a practical situation, which no-one had ever done before.
Ben Oliver
Fascinating lectures that have advanced my music theory knowledge massively over a very short period of time. I would recommend him to anyone who wants to further their music theory knowledge, be them beginners or industry professionals.
Guyu Dean
Genuinely inspirational! A simple and straight forward approach to realizing one's potential in all aspects of music production
Tom Proost
Truly inspirational. That's about it.
Michael Pye
I found his lectures informative and fresh. Not grounded in any particular genre. I feel confident I can apply what I have learnt to my own compositions and productions.
Alex Sangster
Somewhat as a guru, a philosophical approach to teaching music theory.
Rob Willis
Mat, together with having an extraordinary talent himself, can explain music theory in a way that makes it accessible to even non musicians.
Barry Hoffman
Truly inspirational and far too talented!
Stephen McCarthy
Really brilliant stuff. Gave a fresh outlook for me towards music.
Felipe Bastos (Hotwired)
I found this weekend course very interesting and inspiring. The way Mat teaches makes every aspect of music easier to understand. The 2 day course and material will certainly help me with my goals in music.
Raphael Kirmayk (Hotwired)
First of all I would like to say a big thanks to Mat for spending his time in developing such a detailed course, with all his years of expertise in music demonstrated in a great presentation and a great teaching flow. This course is the best I have had since I started producing, the books just look great and feels really inspiring. Thanks.
Adam Davy (Hotwired)
The clearest teaching in this subject I have ever had. Very well structured. Has helped greatly to shed light on and demystify many grey areas.
Tom Walter (Hotwired)
Fantastic, fast paced course. Beginning was a little slow for me because of my previous music experience, but understandable. Completely inspirational in terms of things I would never have thought of trying. I want to go home and completely rearrange my studio set up! Loads to think about. The solid base has given me a way to self motivate for years. Very Happy.
Erik Van Vliet (Hotwired)
Excellent course, really managed to put into place the foundations and build upon that. Can't wait to go through the books to review all the concepts and put them into practice. Top rated course.
Jeff Prankev (DJ Dislexic)
A fantastic approach to an often overwhelming subject.
Leo Nathan
Inspirational, but more importantly, easy to follow and understandable
Juan Blas Leal
Very passionate way of teaching - I got really good ideas - In the mood of keep on learning - Thanks a lot.
Ajay Sharma
He is a musical genius. Words are too few to describe his work and ability towards music. One of the best teachers I have ever come across. His teaching style is very unique and his experience has helped us to learn music very quickly. I would recommend learning lessons on music from this musical genius.
Feargus Brickley
An inspirational few days. I've had a lot of new ideas whilst listening to Mat.
Chris Holm
Mat's lectures are very informative. He manages to teach you a lot in the time given, but at the same time making music theory seem so easy to get started with.
Ben Graves
Really good guy - a lot of knowledge to share and techniques that are easy to learn and valuable/necessary to have in production and composition in music.
Mihai Meirosu
Very good course. All things were explained very well as I've learnt in a week far more than 1 year. I always had problems with intervals and now it's all clear. Mat is explaining very well and straight.
Luis Amorim
I'm really proud to learn with this big genius of the keyboard. Very nice explanation on every step, and we feel ready for the next step......That's just me!!!
Sinem Albal
The lectures was my best lectures about music theory. Simple formulas will help me to keep them in my mind. Thanks......
Viraj Mohan
Great lessons, basics are good. Will be interested in the books and private lessons and hopefully collaborate at a later stage.
Mike Schwab
It was a chill course
Victor Mihailescu
Phenomenal teacher and artist, your course inspired me into learning keyboard and I discovered music theory is very fun! Best of luck in the future
Mark Morrish
Very informative - vast depth of knowledge
Pauline Morgan
Mat McKinley's lectures are like the champagne of music teaching: fresh, heady and they leave you wishing you could have them more often
A J (Hotwired)
First of all, thank you for sharing the gist of your knowledge in three days what must have taken you years to accumulate. I think it is a service that you are doing to music itself. Thank you. For me, I have certainly learnt in these three days a lot more than what I have tried to learn for years, and all that I learnt from books and self study suddenly started to make a big logical sense. That was a eureka experience! The other great thing about this course was that you inspired all of us to push ourselves further and showed us how much more is yet to be learnt and achieved.
Oscar Pablos Salazar (Hotwired)
The weekend has been more clarifying than 3 years of traditional teaching and the material for own work is amazing! Thanks Mat
Nigel Grimshaw -Jones (Hotwired)
Excellent knowledge level. Inspirational. Enthusiastic delivery
Tamas Polyak (Hotwired)
Excellent course for introduce yourself to music. I will definitely benefit from these three days and all the learning materials I got from this course. Great! Thank you!
Brian Cuthbertson (Hotwired)
Having done weekly 1/2 hour keyboard lessons (6 lessons in total) and got a bit frustrated at my progress, I hoped this Hotwired course would "fast track" me to where I want to be without enduring 2 years of frustration! Having now got the theory, I need to ensure I put what I learnt into practice. Excellent course, strongly recommended.
Adam Awan (Hotwired)
Mat's course is full of musical magic that has taught me more than I learned in years of music lessons in just a weekend.
Jason Smith
Hi Matt, Listen I want to thank you for creating those books, they are an amazing collection, I sadly have only got the chance to start on the first book about scales, but you make the hard parts easy!! I am just so happy I have these book for life!! Thanks once again for the books. Jason
Erica Basnicki
Definitely helpful…..very important for the overall curriculum, really loved having music theory demystified and presented in an interesting way. Thanks
Nick Able (Hotwired)
Musical examples and playing was very inspiring. I understood all the elements you talked about to a high level but this was something I had been seeking for a long time. A detailed book of everything you need to know. So I think it's an awesome thing to have done and I'm glad its out there.
Andrew Rhodes (Hotwired)
Probably the most intense course I have been on! As you said I have several years of further reading and practice to take away, but so many really useful techniques and ideas. This course has really helped to start to demystify the whole music composition process. You did a really good job of making "difficult" or seemingly difficult musical concepts easy to understand. Can't wait to get started on the books.
Nuno Oliviera (Hotwired)
It is pretty amazing to find people that share the same thoughts, the same energy, the same vision of things. Never expected such kind of motivation. It's all about jazz! Thank you
Brian McGee (Hotwired)
Excellent course on all fronts. By the end of the first day I had learned more than experience has taught me in years. Presentation of the course was also first rate, highly motivating and inspirational.
Fernando Britto (Hotwired)
I thought the course was really good, very complete and fun (which is important!). In some moments it was very "advanced" since it's the first time I study music theory but now it's up to me to read the books and let the imagination flow. Thanks a lot!
Manuel Mera
Just wanted to say thanks for the excellent lectures at college, they were very much enjoyed. Excellent tutors are rare, but hey, we were privileged.
Carl Newell
I found that Mat's classes opened my mind and ears to a way of working that I thought was unobtainable to me. His style of teaching has inspired me to work harder on developing my compositional techniques and my basic theory, which I used to find very boring.
Andrew Kyprianou
Inspiring, exciting, passion and musical chemistry.
Alberto Perez
Since I'm a kid I never liked music at all (that's why I used to fail at it because I don't like the literature). I have it since I'm 10 or 11 at school, but I knew there was something there that was telling me I like it. Your lessons gave me a new thought and perspective about music and how to enjoy it. I'm going to take more seriously from now on because it's an essential fact I need to know to be successful in music production, engineering and go to the top of this industry.
Feliipe Lacerda
Mat's lectures is such an intake of inspiration and knowledge that makes you rush out at the end of each one of those wonderful musical exposures to work on making music using creativity, a bit of technique and lots of passion. His understanding of how to pass the information on from beginners to advanced students is equally powerful as his talent. I wish I had more time in the company of such a great personality.
Stephen Kyriacou
Unique style of teaching, energetic, enjoyable, challenging and inspiring. Well formulated syllabus - complete.
Emad Dejamkhooy
I think you are a talented person in music so I learned lots of stuff of you and I hope to see you again. All the best.
Tom Edwards
Really inspiring lectures. I enjoyed all of them and I learned pretty much; Thank you very much.
Andres Montana
It was great being in a lesson taught by Mat, he's a great teacher and very enthusiastic. He was especially beneficial for me as I had no prior experience of music theory. It was very enjoyable and I learnt so much whilst I had Mat as a teacher.
Nick Sheldon
Lovely stuff, learnt a lot over a short period. Everything explained really well, no mucking about! ENJOYABLE.
Ed Sutton
Very well explained points of view on music theory that is easily transposed into programming, writing and even engineering. Fun, easy and relaxed way of learning. Mat is the man!
Pietro Vassura
Very nice course. Interesting and innovative. Thanks
Anthony Scott-Lee
Excellent teacher, I’ve learnt a lot about music and Mat made learning that little bit easier, many thanks.
Rob Patterson
Mat's approach to teaching is a refreshing change from a lot of the stuffy, dry methods employed by many music teachers. He manages to cover all of the same, theoretical ground (and much more besides) as in "classical" teaching whilst drawing on his vast experience to give further insight. He certainly inspired most of the class into very much a "yeah, I can do this", positive mentality, and I have put into practise many of his tips and tricks when writing my own music.
Michael Necati
It was an absolute privilege to be taught music theory by Mat. Within the space of a few days, I was introduced to a whole new world of composing, scales and chords, the music industry and the overall training of my ear. Everything was explained thoroughly with great detail providing a somewhat fantastic teaching/learning environment.
Adam Wilkinson
Fantastic lectures and lessons. Digesting common and advanced music theory became a piece of cake for me. I feel I understand chord structures and scales whereas before I had no music theory knowledge at all.
Duncan "Pixie" Mills
Mat's groundbreaking and innovative systems/methods of teaching music theory, programming and composition are a real eye opener for the absolute beginner and the seasoned pro alike. An exciting and refreshing take on an essential but sometimes stuffy subject. Mat's a legend.
Carlo Anderson
Until taking Mat's class I found music theory to be confusing and boring. Now I feel that I have the tools and motivation to succeed within a professional music environment.
Ray Matthews (Hotwired)
Really enjoyed the course.
Ben Blank (Hotwired)
Your lessons helped me A LOT. I am doing now some research on Eastern European Ethnic scales.....amazing. Looks like there are some deep roots in Persia!! He he who would think...
Michael Delaney (Hotwired)
The programming book is gr8, I used the funky cheat sheet a good few times!!! been religiously reading them... i never thought i'd be able to sit and understand music in such an enjoyable way... considering i only spent 3 days with u and the amount of stuff u covered... if u started a 10 day course i'd start it tomorrow... and i'm not just saying this... i dont f*ck around wasting my time....
Wes Cook
Hey Mat, thanks again for everything.....truly brilliant and inspiring.
Greg Marriott
As skilled a teacher as he is a musician, classes were fun, fast and informative. I look forward to the next class.
Jamie Dower (aka d King)
Mat's teaching was inspirational for me, the things he teaches is amazing, I can definitely apply what I've learnt for my productions and future projects.
Kristina Kokkini
Not only a great lecturer - a fantastic musician. To have a lesson taught is one thing, but to see the potential for what I could do is inspiring.
Sunita Sagger
I learned how to make my music sound more interesting and fun ways of starting new ideas.
Tina Kumar (Hotwired)
Great approach for all levels with something new and cool (for everyone).
Alan Cross (Hotwired)
Very intensive but well worth it. Great teaching explained in a dynamic and engaging way.
Fergal Dunne (Hotwired)
This course takes the technical and complex ideas behind music composition and presents it in an easy to understand format. Excellent course if you are a beginner or an advanced composer.
Warren Scott (Hotwired)
Opened up my creative side.
Berik Moretzsohn 2 (Hotwired)
(via email).... I'm now understanding a lot about everything you said in the course - just wanted to thank you cause I'm going to be able to realise my dream which is making electronic music, but in a musical way. Well good luck with everything and congratulations, these books are just perfect. I would like to enrol on the next course you give. Thank you once again and see you later Mat.
Berik Moretzsohn 1 (Hotwired)
I think this is a great method, teacher and material - to learn by myself with the books
Keith Mills (Hotwired)
Overall an excellent music course, easily the best I have been on to date. You managed to simplify the building blocks of theory very effectively and provide a sound base on which we can all approach the book pack.
Jarrod Wright (Hotwired)
Thank you so much Mat
Ben Jacobs (Hotwired)
I really enjoyed the course and thought with all your knowledge combined into the pack its worth every penny! It was so great to see such a pro at work and the fact you designed the books makes it all the more exciting. You really knew what you were talking about, so I have full faith in every page turned which is a great drive.
Edward Hoyland
Great teaching skills, learnt so much in such a small space of time.
Lora Hemy
Mat has a great way of explaining music theory that makes you feel very enthusiastic and inspired about something that seemed so dry and impossible when taught at school.
Nima Shams
Extremely inspiring. I am amazed by how much knowledge this man has and the way he shares it with you. What's better than a humble teacher that explains everything in a way that everybody understands!
Simon Carter
How do you turn a techno producer into a songwriter in 3 days? Learn with Hotwired.
Hans Kristian C. Pedersen
Music theory hasn't been clearer since Edison invented the light bulb.
Ed Thaw
Mat made me think in a totally different way about how to make music on a computer (out of the matrix editor and back onto the keyboard). I can't recommend this course enough.
Stuart Watson
Thanks for the inspiration
Gareth Harper
The most productive and interesting lessons I have had, perfect for anyone looking to get into music production.
Oli Wright
2 years of music theory in 3 days. Beat that! Inspiring and amazing teacher.
Simon Ward (DJ Nodi)
"Ravishing"
Robert Muloch
Expands the musical thinking of the brain; enjoyed every part of it.
Calvin Keelan
Some of the tracks and teaching methods are just dandy!
Joe Sutherland
Finally....someone's come out with a program that works for anyone no matter how "underground" you are. Oh the bass programming section is "The Dogs" for you Hip Hop heads!!
Alex Burns
Fantastic teacher, easy to learn techniques - gives results quickly. Inspiring.
Spiridon Fountas
The best experience I has so far, in learning music theory. I look at the whole subject now with less intimidation than before. Your approach made sense.
Kelly Roberts
Superior theoretical knowledge with the chops to back it up, but more importantly, Mat has the teaching skill to get his ideas across quickly and clearly, and the desire for students to enjoy music as much as he does.
Sergio Dinis
Found the lectures very inspiring; made me look at music from a fresh, universal perspective as both musician and songwriter. It's great to approach music teaching in such a relaxed, fun way. I am looking forward to the book.
Carl Ingler
I have really enjoyed these lectures. They have been very informative and interesting. Even though my mother is a college music teacher, I have learned a lot during these days about composition and what to listen for when trying to find chords. Thankyou
Chris Dominey
Mat's teaching style is very effective, clear and concise. I feel I've gained some very useful knowledge to help develop my basic music skills and am well on my way to mastering the basic scales and chords on a keyboard - pretty damn good for three afternoon lectures
Mari Chiara Nicisoro
Molto chiaro, diretto, semplice, diversense, disponibile. Ha un qualcosa di geniale hentre suona il piano e crea musica. Non riesco a trovare dufetti. Well done.
John Jeffreys
I really enjoyed Mat's teaching because it's very rare to find someone who's actually excited about teaching and passes that onto you.
Sam Doha
The lectures kept me interested for the whole time and also inspired me to go and get creating. I really enjoyed them and I'd recommend them to everyone interested in music and composition.
Tony Garston
Brings the fun into what I had always thought was a dull subject....music theory. Most enjoyable and informative lessons
Robbie Wills
Informative and inspiring; full of excellent ideas for the composing process
Daniel Abela
Extremely useful information about how to remember scales, modes and chords.
Maurice Humeau
Vibrant and exciting lectures. They are very inspiring and helped me a lot to progress.
Rachim Baloo
Mat's lessons are fun and informative - something I can definitely take home and use in my own productions.
Rob Biddulph
Mat's passion for the musical arts is evident with every finely honed and meticulously detailed lesson. His ability to communicate is astounding and he is quick to focus in on each individual's ability and needs. His enthusiasm is contagious and it is impossible to leave his lesson uninspired.
Ross Allan
Genuinely looked forward to Mat's classes - I found myself appreciating songs I'd listened to hundreds of times all over again.
Yashar Niazmand
Le cours avec Mat m'as ouvert les yeux sur la facon de composer de la musique avec un minimum de connaissance et tout ca par le biais de sa methode detendue et sympathique. Grace a son enseignement je peux dire que j'ai aquis un niveau plus eleve que je ne l'esperais.
Antonio Munoz Soriano
I think the ideas that Mat has put in my mind have help me a lot in order to play my ideas and achieve a way of working that works very much better. I hope everybody finds the course as interesting as me. Thank you very much.
Jimmy Lee
Really enjoyed the classes very much.
Pete Miller
Great way to spend three days. When I finished my lecture, all I wanted to do was get in front of my mac and start smashing out a tune. Very inspired and motivated (shit hot).
John Poole
In all I spent 18 hours with Mat where he squeezed two years of music theory into that time. Mat has masses of energy, he is very driven, focused, and is an excellent mentor. After the short course I felt inspired and motivated to get busy creating music. I would recommend Mat's short courses to anyone who wants to know anything about music.
Thomas Reichenheim
Mat is a lecturer really interested in making students understand the subjects. The lectures were really useful for my comprehension of music theory. Nice step forward. Very nice pal as well.
Chris Catchpole
I found Mat's music theory lectures to be presented in a very accessible manner. All material covered followed a logical sequence and was easy to understand. Having been baffled by some music theory before, this was a refreshing change. The thing that I will take with me is the inspirational way in which the material is presented. Motivational stuff – many thanks
Ngomi Afriqua Vere
Mat's music lectures have changed my life and career forever. Innovative, fun and equipping the passionate producer with the keys to great music composition. Thank YOU. What makes the lectures special is Mat’s genuine style of teaching
