Matt Murphy

Matt Murphy Drum Lessons

Let’s Groove Tonight

Categories: Drum

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Matt Murphy is the embodiment of the all-American percussionist—his grooves cut across all musical styles with authority and authenticity.

A proud artist for Drum Workshop Drums and Hardware, SABIAN Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks and Brushes, X Percussion, 64 Audio In-Ear Monitors, Audix Microphones, Humes and Berg, Gruv Gear, Prologix, Cympad International, and Big Fat Snare Drum, Matt brings passion and precision to every product he endorses. Matt is also a respected international clinician and educator on the education teams for Drum Workshop, SABIAN, and Vic Firth. For Matt, music isn't just what he does—it’s who he is.

With over 40 years dedicated to perfecting his craft, Matt’s journey began at Western Illinois University, where he performed with the Grammy-Nominated Jazz Studio Orchestra. From 1994 to 1997, he toured nationally with The Steel Bandits, playing to sold- out venues from the Sunset Strip to the 1996 Olympic Games, and later across Europe and the U.S..

From 1997 to 2002, Matt served as Musical Director for Norwegian Cruise Line, where he led bands, managed departments, and performed across the Caribbean, North America, Europe, and the Hawaiian Islands.

Hollywood came calling in 2002, and Matt brought his expertise to television—appearing on-camera as a sideline musician and working behind the scenes as a Music Consultant for the MTV reboot of The Partridge Family and the hit Warner Bros. series Gilmore Girls.

Now based in Las Vegas, Matt performs regularly as a bandleader, sideman, and consultant, lighting up stages at premier venues including the Bellagio, MGM Grand, Waldorf Astoria, Venetian, and Mandarin Oriental. His theatrical credits include acclaimed productions like Smokey Joe’s Café, TOMMY, Hair, RENT, and In the Heights.

In 2020, Matt released his long-awaited educational book, A Drummer’s Guide to Afro- Caribbean & South American Grooves, which received high praise from respected authors, performers, and educators throughout the percussion world.

As an educator, Matt has shaped the next generation of drummers for decades—teaching at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Alexander Dawson School (2005–2022), The Warehouse School (2020–2022), and percussion at the Nasri School for Gifted Children, these posts he considers a true honor.

2025 marks a banner year: while continuing to teach a full roster of students, Matt is launching an online membership platform offering lessons for all levels—from beginner to advanced—covering grooves, rudiments, styles, theory, and more.

And of course, he’s still laying it down with his band and longtime friends in State of Mind.

Instructor provides lessons at: Instructor’s Location

CONTACT INFO

ADDRESS
6148 Dutch Fork Street, Las Vegas, NV, 89148, United States
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TEACHER'S LOCATION

REVIEWS (13)

Christine Ballard

Matt Murphy is not only an excellent drum instructor, but he is also an excellent role model. He encourages our son to not only give 100% during his drum lessons, but also in school and life. His teaching method has far exceeded our expectations. Matt’s ability to challenge our son in an exciting and fun way has enabled our son to excel in drumming. Therefore, our son doesn’t mind getting up early on weekends, a not easy task for a teenager, and playing drums for Matt. We have such confidence in Matt’s ability as a musician and instructor that we drive over 60 miles round-trip every week for his lessons. There is no question as to who we recommend for drum instruction. My son even encourages his friends and classmates to take classes from Matt…straight from the mouth of babes! Our family feels that Matt has been a blessing, and we couldn’t imagine using anyone else for drum instruction.

Meryl Russo

My 13-year-old son started taking drum lessons when he was 10. Although he had a good teacher, his interest did not seem to grow over time. He had given up the drums for over a year. Then, he took a drum workshop for a week & met Matt. He has been taking lessons with him ever since. In the past year and a half, not only has Zach developed a love and passion for drumming, but he has found an amazing coach & friend in Matt. Matt can connect with kids (and adults). He can understand where my son comes from musically and beyond.

Laura Lux

I highly recommend Matt Murphy for drum lessons. He has taught my ten-year-old daughter for the past 1.5 years. He has also taught her to play the marimba. He teaches students at all levels, from beginners to advanced, including children and adults. He does an outstanding job teaching children on their level. Maybe because he still has a bit of a kid himself. What I like most about Matt is that he is a young man of outstanding character and morals, unlike many of the musicians that you might be hesitant to let your child be around. He is a Christian and teaches drum lessons at his church, as well as at other locations. When my daughter comes to the lesson tired from school and not in the mood for drums, he picks up on that immediately and finds a way to encourage her, and she always leaves the lesson smiling. He prepares a written lesson plan each week, customized specifically for each student, and provides individualized written homework based on the material covered in the lesson. He expects my daughter to practice League of Legends throughout the week, but he is flexible and understanding when she isn’t fully prepared for the lesson. Great overall music instructor!

Cheryl Ruettiger

Matt is outstanding! He is a great drum teacher and much fun to work with! My son is learning all the necessary techniques and is already playing to music that he loves! My son looks forward to his lessons with Matt every week. We would highly recommend Matt anytime.

Angela Maestas

Matt was hired to be my 5-year-old nephew’s instructor several months ago, and we could not be happier with our decision. Matt has gone above and beyond his role as our instructor. He is truly invested in my nephew’s success in learning to play the drums. I am sincerely grateful to have somebody like Matt involved in my nephew’s education.

Buddy Gibbons

I want to put someone on your radar screen if I may. Matt Murphy, drummer in Vegas. He’s already a DW/Sabian/Vic guy, and having been offered other drumheads, he has never accepted a deal with anyone because he’s Remo, through and through. His presence in Las Vegas is extensive, having worked with a diverse range of artists, including Charo, Sam Cooke, and Jennifer Nettles, and has performed in shows such as Rent, Tommy, and Hair, among others. I know him to be a class act of a guy, and someone that would be an outstanding addition to the Remo roster.

Garrison- Artist Relations at Drum Workshop, Inc.

I am writing this letter to confirm that Matt Murphy is not only a Drum Workshop Full Line Artist for more years than I can remember, but also that Matt is one of those drummers that you want to represent your brand. He has the qualities and abilities that most aspire to have. I write this not only as DW Artist Relations Manager but also as a friend.

Your Students From The Warehouse School

Dear Mr. Matt. The delight we have had during the school year rocking out with you is indescribable. We wish you the best Christmas and hope that your year is filled with laughter and love. We\'re all so grateful for the skills that you\'ve taught us over the many years, and every single memory will be cherished from triplets to fills.

Bita Nasri

Hi, Matt! I just wanted to let you know that we love having you at the school, teaching the students drums. Also, I\'m a BIG fan of yours. You\'re doing a wonderful job.

Jason Smylie

As the father of four, I understand the importance of a great mentor and educator in a child\'s life. Matt Murphy has been an extraordinary drum teacher for my son, Moxley. The progress Moxley has made under Matt\'s instruction is nothing short of magical. Not only is Matt exceptionally skilled, but he also possesses a unique ability to connect with children, always patient, encouraging, and kind. What sets Matt apart is his dynamic teaching style. He seamlessly blends fundamentals with fun, allowing Moxley to choose songs that excite him, while never neglecting the technical aspects of drumming. This approach keeps Moxley engaged and eager to learn more in each lesson. Matt\'s flexibility is another huge plus—he\'s willing to teach at our home or his, making the logistics much easier for busy families. If you\'re considering drum lessons for yourself or your child, look no further than Matt Murphy. His extraordinary talent and exceptional teaching methods make him the ideal choice.

Joe Irvine

Lessons with Matt have been a wonderful experience. His style allows my Daughter to have much fun while improving at the same time. I think this comes from the passion and patience he has for teaching. This means a great deal to me because drumming is both challenging and rewarding. ? Matt has a great sense of pace to his instruction that allows her to improve without feeling overwhelmed. This has created a situation where she is so excited about her lesson every week, and something she feels like she \"gets\" from han drumming is something to do, rather than something she \"has\" to do. ? That vibe has led to her practicing at home on her own simply because she enjoys it. It also seems to be positively affecting her mind and extends to other areas of her life. As for me, witnessing the music and personal bond they are creating has been an absolute joy! Thank you, Matt!

Aimee Sobers

Matt Murphy has been an amazing drum teacher for my son Dylan! ? Dylan loves attending drum lessons, and under Matt’s easy-to-understand teaching techniques, he has made significant progress. Matt breaks down each lesson into manageable steps using fun exercises and songs to motivate him. ? He is also giving Dylan a firm foundation of the essential techniques of drumming while also allowing him to have fun! ? I can\'t recommend Matt Murphy enough if you are considering drum lessons!

Annie Brier

My husband and I are incredibly impressed with Matt. In the short time I\'ve spent with him, I have learned a great deal, and I am already doing things I never thought I could. Not only is Matt an exceptional drummer and truly knowledgeable about his craft, but he is patient and makes learning fun. I look forward to my weekly lessons, and I\'m excited for all he has to teach me for my future lessons, as I plan to continue for a very long time. If you are searching for an exceptional drum teacher, I highly recommend Matt.

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