Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry is a Teaching Professor of Music at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, where he has served since 2003. His expertise spans non-Western percussion traditions, with a focus on Malinke ethnic drumming from West Africa and Cuban popular/folkloric styles.

• Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance, University of Missouri-St. Louis
• Master of Arts in Orchestral Performance, Webster University

Henry's research and pedagogical work centers on cultural preservation through performance, blending traditional African and Latin percussion techniques with modern educational frameworks. He actively promotes cross-cultural understanding via clinics, masterclasses, and collaborations with institutions across the Midwest.

His academic contributions focus on music education and percussion pedagogy, emphasizing practical engagement with global musical traditions. The 2016 UMSL Daily article highlights his role in expanding the university's percussion program through innovative repertoire development and community partnerships.

Performance Highlights:

• Principal timpanist, Webster University Orchestra
• Principal percussionist, Union Avenue Opera
• Founder, SpecDrum project
• Artist/Educational Clinician for REMO, Vic Firth, and LP