معرفی
Matt Jenson is a Professor in the Piano Department at Berklee College of Music, where he teaches private piano lessons, Hammond organ labs, Afro-Cuban piano labs, and the innovative course The Music and Life of Bob Marley. He is also the creator of the Art of Reggae online educational platform and leads experiential music trips to Jamaica. His work bridges performance, education, and cultural immersion.
Educational Background:
- Master of Music (MM) in Jazz Studies, New England Conservatory of Music (1992)
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology, University of New Hampshire (1987)
Matt's research and teaching interests revolve around jazz, reggae, improvisation, ensemble groove, and the sociopolitical dimensions of music, especially as expressed through the life and work of Bob Marley. He emphasizes the connection between music and social justice, encouraging students to use their art for truth, healing, and activism. His pedagogical approach is highly personalized, integrating theory, technique, songwriting, arranging, and cross-genre improvisation.
Though no formal publications are listed, his creative output includes leading multiple performance ensembles—such as The Liquid Revolution, Rebel-Tumbao, and the Berklee Bob Marley Ensemble—and producing original music under the new ambient project Unmarked Routes, set for release in Fall 2025. This project explores sonic hypnogogy, blending piano, string quartet, woodwinds, and experimental electronics in a contemplative, hypnotic soundscape.
Matt is a vocal advocate for fair compensation for musicians. He highlights systemic inequities in music streaming platforms like Spotify and supports legislative efforts such as Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib’s Living Wage for Musicians Act. His advocacy underscores the importance of artists in shaping cultural and existential realities.
He has performed and collaborated with notable artists including Judy Mowatt, Rita Marley, Chinna Smith, Ronnie Earl, and Eddie Palmieri. He studied with jazz luminaries Geri Allen, Dave Holland, Ran Blake, and Eddie Palmieri, further grounding his artistic and educational philosophy. He conducts clinics and masterclasses across the U.S. and Jamaica, expanding his influence as a music educator and cultural ambassador.
Matt leads the Unmarked Routes ensemble, which features cellist Catherine Bent, violinist/violist Bengisu Gokce, woodwind player Stan Strickland, and engineer John Escobar. The group recorded at Guilford Sound in Vermont, aiming to create emotionally resonant, genre-blurring music that invites deep listening and reflection.
