We were lucky to catch up with Matt Skellenger recently and have shared our conversation below.
Matt, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
When I was 14, I had a friend who received a Bass Guitar as a gift. We were hanging out together shortly after he got it, and he let me try it out. In an instant, I was hooked! I told my dad on the way home that I wanted to play the Bass. I started studying with an instructor, playing in bands, and meeting friends who also played music. By the time I was a senior in high school, I knew I wanted to continue down this path of studying music. I am still on that journey over 30 years later. Today, I make my living by sharing music with 100’s of people every week through performance, composition, and education.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a musician, composer, and educator. I make my living by writing and performing my own music, playing in multiple bands, and teaching music. The most exciting part of my job is the opportunity to be creative while sharing music with so many different people every week. I have released multiple albums of original music under my name Matt Skellenger Group. We have played at the top jazz clubs in Denver, and my music is frequently played on Colorado and International radio stations. In addition to the group, I perform my original music as a soloist every week. I play in multiple bands with great musicians and friends every week. I get the opportunity to teach kids as young as 1 all the way up to adults in their 70’s and 80’s working at Swallow Hill Music School. Sharing the gift of music with such a variety of people on a weekly basis is what makes my job so special.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
1. Be yourself. I think this is the most important part of being a successful creative.
2. Find mentors to study with who support who you are and what you are trying to accomplish. I am very fortunate to have had
some amazing mentors in my journey who support what I do. Ron Miles and Victor Wooten have been
incredible mentors to me.
3. Learn to be adaptable. The path to success might not be what you initially envision it to be. Learn to handle
curveballs, while continuing to grow.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
My parents provided an environment where we were encouraged to pursue our interests. We were given opportunities to study music and play sports as kids. Music was a big part of our household. My brothers and I grew up playing Violin, Piano, Guitar, Drums, and Bass, and it was all facilitated by our parents’ support and encouragement. When I decided to have a career in music, they continued to support and encourage me to do it. I would not be where I am today without them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mattskellenger.com
- Instagram: @mattskellenger1
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mattskellenger
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mattskellenger1827
Image Credits
Lisa Siciliano
Honor Miles
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
