Mat Maneri

Mat Maneri is an accomplished American violinist and composer known for his innovative approach to jazz and contemporary music. Here are some key facts about him:

1. Early Life and Musical Background: Mat Maneri was born on October 4, 1969, in Brooklyn, New York. He grew up in a musical family; his father, Joe Maneri, was a renowned jazz composer and microtonal theorist, while his mother, Sonja Maneri, was a concert violinist. Mat began studying the violin at a young age, learning both classical and jazz techniques.

2. Exploration of Microtonality: Mat Maneri is recognized for his exploration of microtonality in his music. Microtonality involves the use of intervals smaller than those traditionally found in Western music, allowing for a broader range of expressive possibilities. Influenced by his father's work in microtonal music, Mat has incorporated these principles into his improvisations and compositions, creating a unique and distinctive sound.

3. Collaborations and Versatility: Throughout his career, Mat Maneri has collaborated with a diverse array of musicians from various genres, showcasing his versatility as a performer and composer. He has worked with jazz luminaries such as Joe Morris, Matthew Shipp, and William Parker, as well as avant-garde composers like John Zorn and Cecil Taylor. Maneri's ability to seamlessly navigate different musical contexts and styles has earned him respect and admiration within the music community.

4. Discography and Solo Work: Mat Maneri has released numerous albums as both a leader and a sideman. His discography includes a mix of solo recordings, collaborative projects, and ensemble performances. Some notable albums featuring Maneri's work include "Sustain" (2002), "Blue Decco" (2004), and "Pentagon" (2016). These recordings showcase his inventive improvisational skills, compositional prowess, and deep understanding of musical form and structure.

5. Teaching and Education: In addition to his career as a performer and recording artist, Mat Maneri is also active as an educator. He has served as a faculty member at institutions such as the New England Conservatory of Music and the Peabody Institute, where he shares his expertise in improvisation, composition, and music theory with aspiring musicians. Maneri's dedication to teaching reflects his commitment to passing on the knowledge and traditions of jazz and contemporary music to future generations.

Overall, Mat Maneri is a visionary artist who has pushed the boundaries of jazz and contemporary music through his exploration of microtonality, his versatile collaborations, and his innovative compositions. His contributions to the world of music continue to inspire and influence musicians and audiences alike, solidifying his legacy as a pioneering figure in modern jazz.