Raised in the Lower 9th Ward of New Orleans, just blocks from the residence of renowned pianist and vocalist Fats Domino, Matt Lemmler’s formative years were characterized by an immersive musical environment. The Vinyl Anachronist says, “Matt Lemmler stands as one of New Orleans’ distinguished jazz pianists, embodying the city’s essence with profound authenticity and passion.” After earning a Bachelor of Music from Loyola University and a Master’s degree from the Manhattan School of Music in New York City, Lemmler embarked on a four-year tour with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “The Phantom of the Opera.” Subsequently, he honed his musical prowess by collaborating with esteemed bandleaders from New Orleans, including Bob French and the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, Herb Tassin and the Blue Room Orchestra, and the renowned jazz clarinetist Pete Fountain.
Today, Lemmler tours nationally and internationally, delivering solo concerts, premiering Jazz Masses, and leading clinics and workshops. During his time in New Orleans, he collaborates with the New Orleans Jazz Revival (a collaborative effort involving talented musicians, producers, and educators) to create exceptional recordings, original theatrical productions, and innovative learning opportunities within the community.
In addition to his band productions of various sizes, Matt regularly performs more intimate solo shows titled New Orleans in Stride and The Book of Psalms, where he both sings and demonstrates his mastery of jazz piano and voice. Drawing from his diverse background, he incorporates a broad range of styles and filters them through his unique sensibility. Through both his larger ensemble work and his solo performances, he aims to share the distinctly complex New Orleans culture with the world and ensure its legacy for future generations through collaborative mentorship and education grounded in world-class musicianship.
His eighth album release, New Orleans in Stride, Volume 1 & 2, is his first solo release featuring only his piano and vocals. Matt uses his unique New Orleans perspective for a jubilant exploration of how classic stride piano can embrace a wide range of songs. Matt Lemmler is the Jazz Piano/Improvisation professor at Loyola University, College of Music in New Orleans. He is also a voting member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS, the Recording Academy/GRAMMYS) and a union member of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM).