Matthew Atkins - Live - session - mentor
Coquitlam, BC, Canada
780.318.3786
matthewatkinsmusic.com
I have been a full time drummer and percussionist for over 30 years. In that time I have performed across North America, and around the world. As a well educated and experienced player, I work on an ongoing basis with many house bands, touring artists, show bands, and high end corporate event bands. I have enjoyed a close relationship with the Canadian country music industry, and am currently the Musical Director and drummer for Chad Brownlee, a Canadian country music artist with over 20 charting singles. In addition to that, I am a very active studio musician with recording credits for TV and film, as well as a very large assortment of commercial releases. A few of the recognizable projects and artists I have worked with include Dean Brody, The Washboard Union, Brett Kissel, Gord Bamford, George Canyon, Doc Walker, Canadian Forces Show Tours, Bjorn Again (North American touring cast), Michelle Wright, Tenille Townes, and many more. I also own and run an active dedicated drum recording studio, “The Drum Oven” in Vancouver BC.
As a teacher I currently maintain a regular teaching/mentoring schedule for a small group of select students. The students range from dedicated beginners to professional touring drummers. Some of my current and previous students have gone on to work in highly recognizable touring and studio projects, and win national recognitions of their own.
My career has benefitted greatly from an excellent musical education. I graduated with honours from the Musicians Institute (PIT) in Los Angeles, and was my year’s recipient of the Human Relations award sponsored by Zildjian. This award was a great honour for me, as it recognizes someone who is able to create meaningful relationships, and was voted on by both the faculty and student body. That education has allowed me to work in a large variety of situations including house bands for regional and national awards shows, recording sessions, and as a fill in for high level touring artists who need someone to step into a large venue show, with little to no rehearsal.
I am a 4 time winner of the Canadian Country Music Association “Drummer Of The Year”, award. I also have the distinction of being the most nominated drummer in the history of the CCMA awards, with an unprecedented 19 “Drummer Of The Year” nominations (final ballot). In addition, I have been named the Alberta Recording Industries Association “Session Musician Of The Year”, as well as the British Columbia Country Music Association “All Star Band - Drums” award.
I am very proud to endorse and enjoy the support of Remo drumheads, Sabian cymbals, and Los Cabos drumsticks.
