Keyboardist Matt Rohde is a Connecticut native who has been active in the Los Angeles music scene for many years. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Matt is known for his versatility and his ability to bring the right ingredients to any musical situation.
Matt began his music career as a touring musician, working with artists as diverse as Isaac Hayes, Hanson, and Alanis Morissette. He also served as Music Director for the first American Idol tour, which led him to become Kelly Clarkson’s Music Director early in her career. Matt also was the Musical Director for R&B star Maxwell on his “Now” and “Black Summer’s Night” tours. In addition, Matt was Japanese pop superstar Hikaru Utada’s Music Director for several years, working on her “Utada United”, “In The Flesh” and “Wild Life” concert tours.
Other touring career highlights include the “Silver Spoon Anniversary” concerts with Jane’s Addiction, and shows with Jennifer Lopez, Roger Daltrey, Christina Aguilera and Prince.
In 2005 Matt was hired by Rickey Minor to be an Associate Music Director on Fox’s American Idol, where he worked for ten seasons as an arranger and mentor to the contestants. He later joined NBC’s The Voice during their third season, where he continues to work as an arranger.
In addition to TV and live performances, Matt enjoys a busy career as a session musician. His work can be heard in several feature films including Robots and Be Cool, and he has loaned his talents to many recording artists, including The Plain White T’s, Thalia, Perry Farrel and Demi Lovato. Matt also works regularly with legendary producer Jack Douglas.
In 2004 Matt and his wife Beth founded Coast Music Conservatory, a private music school which offers first-rate instruction to the next generation of musicians. The couple also owns RWB Music Services, a full-service music production and recording facility located in Palos Verdes, CA.