I played in Wind Symphony and Brown Band with Matt from 1999-2003 and served as his assistant conductor for Wind Symphony 2000-2003. He also informally gave me conducting lessons and advised me on everything under the sun.

The impact Matt has had on my life and the depth of my gratitude for his care and mentoring are incalculable. He gave me opportunities that are more or less unheard of for undergraduates. He trusted me with responsibility, offered support when I needed it, and let me fail when I needed to learn how. He knew when to offer a safety net and when to force me to stand on my own. His advice was always honest and heartfelt, as was both his praise and criticism. Without his faith in me and his unwavering help, I never would have been able to pursue my dream of a conducting career. Thank you doesn’t even begin to cover it.

– Jaemi, class of ’03

[Picture featured above is from my 10 year reunion in 2013.]