Piano, Guitar, Bass, Drums, Voice, Saxophone, Clarinet
Matt Coakley
I teach piano, guitar, bass, drums, vocals, songwriting, and woodwinds. I’m from the Philly area and I have been playing instruments and singing since I was about 6 years old.
I graduated from Drexel University in 2019 with a degree in recording arts, which launched me into the Chicago music scene, where I taught music and worked in recording studios for 6 years. In 2025 I moved back to Philly, where I’ve continued teaching, writing, performing, and producing.
I have worked with students as young as 5 as well as teens, young adults, and even parents! I try to make lessons fun and engaging so that I can meet you where you’re at and help you get excited on the road to reaching your goal.
When did you begin playing music, and why?
My parents started me on piano in 1st grade, but we had a piano in the house since I was an infant, and I was a curious toddler!
What other instruments do you play, and what is your experience with them?
I teach piano, guitar, bass, drums, woodwinds, and voice. In middle school, I began writing songs with friends and singing them, playing them on guitar and piano. I’ve played with many different bands and artists over the years. I have also done solo performances of classical and jazz piano, and my original music.
What are your personal goals as a musician?
To continue to incorporate music in my life and the lives of those around me. I believe music can be healing, therapeutic, connecting, and a great way to express your authentic self!
Do you have a memory of a time when a musical concept or technique really clicked? Something you’ll remember forever?
The first song I taught myself how to play on the acoustic guitar by ear was Green Day’s “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)”.
What is your favorite piece of advice from one of your past (or current) teachers?
“Slowing down is a superpower— use it in practice and you’ll speed up your performance!”
What was your most challenging moment learning an instrument?
When I was learning how to sing, I had to unlearn some negative thoughts I was having about my voice which were holding me back from practicing effectively.
What is your biggest musical achievement?
I wrote a whole musical with my long time friend and collaborator Franco Giacomarra! We premiered “Planet W: A Sci-Fi Musical” in New York City at ARS Nova ANT Fest in 2024. A cast album was released on Spotify and the musical became a 2025 Finalist for the O’Neill Musical Theatre Conference.
Favorite thing about teaching?
Helping other people unlock a skill that ends up giving them unlimited hours of joy, wellness, and intellectual stimulation!
What is a piece of advice you would like to share with anyone learning music?
Question every thought in your head that says you can’t try an instrument or you won’t be good at it for one reason for another. You’re more capable than you think.
Personal music projects:
I release music under my own name, Matt Coakley. I have a new album coming out in 2026!