Matt Harp: Making Every Note Count
Matt Harp image by Inner Images Photography
Tucked away in Springfield, Missouri, a vibrant thread in the rich tapestry of jazz is being woven by guitarist Matt Harp, whose musical narrative intertwines familial roots with personal passion.
Matt's introduction to music was cradled in the warmth of family influence. "Music has always been a big part of our family, though none of us pursued it professionally," Matt reflects. His father's saxophone tunes, including the memorable "Pink Panther" theme, formed the lullabies of his childhood, and his mother's voice, often heard in their church, provided a soulful backdrop to his early years.
Growing up, Matt was surrounded by music, with siblings playing sax and trumpet, and an uncle fascinating him with his banjo in a bluegrass group. These experiences, diverse and rich, painted his initial canvas of sounds. "Seeing my uncle perform at Silver Dollar City and elsewhere was always fascinating to me," he shares, a hint of nostalgia in his tone.
From this familial foundation, Matt's own musical path took shape. His journey on the guitar began at 14, a decision influenced by his earlier explorations on a keyboard. "I realized that I was arranging mostly guitar-driven music. That's when I decided to switch to guitar," he explains. The guitar's versatility and emotive potential captivated him, opening a world of endless musical exploration.
The jazz artists that first captivated Matt were none other than the legendary John Coltrane, Wes Montgomery, and George Benson. "Their ease and virtuosity, no matter how complex the piece, was mind-boggling," Matt recalls. These influences steered him towards a traditional bebop style with occasional forays into blues and rock.
For Matt, the music is deeply interwoven with his family life, a source of strength and inspiration. Reflecting on a pivotal moment, he shares, "The birth of my daughters was a profound experience. It came with its own set of challenges, but it also brought an unexpected depth to my music." This period in his life was transformative, guiding him to find solace and expression through his melodies. The trials he faced, particularly concerning his daughters' health, not only tested him but also enriched his artistic sensibility. Every strum and chord he plays carries a piece of these experiences, lending an authentic and heartfelt quality to his performances. In his music, one can sense the journey of a father, a musician, and a storyteller, intertwining the strands of personal struggle and the healing power of art.
Despite occasional self-doubt, common in the world of jazz virtuosos, Matt found solace in original music. "It's important to say something new," he asserts. "My goal is to use my unique influences to create a style that's my own."
Regularly performing with the Brueggemann Gouge Jazz Band at Hold Fast Brewing, among other venues, Matt keeps his music alive and thriving. "I love the interplay that happens in a full band setting," he says, emphasizing the joy of creating music in a communal setting.
Matt Harp's story is not just one of a musician but a narrative of family, resilience, and the transformative power of music. In the streets of Springfield, his guitar doesn't just play tunes; it tells his life's story, one note at a time.
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