Principal Timpani
Matthew Bassett became Principal Timpanist of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra in 2009. Highlights of Mr. Bassett’s career have included serving as principal timpanist for the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra; performing as concerto soloist with the Cleveland Orchestra, Buffalo Philharmonic, and the Canton Symphony; and participating in the U.S. premiere performance of Four4 by John Cage with the composer in attendance. Since 1993, he has been principal timpanist with Apollo’s Fire (The Cleveland Baroque Orchestra). Matt can be heard on many commercial recordings with the Buffalo Philharmonic, Apollo’s Fire, and the Cleveland Orchestra.
In addition to his orchestral work, Mr. Bassett maintains a busy schedule of solo and chamber performance. He has performed solo and collaborative recitals focusing on both classics of the percussion/timpani repertoire and premiere performances of new music. Recent appearances include the Buffalo Brass Choir, Buffalo Chamber Players, and “Informally Formal” recital series at Canisius College.
Mr. Bassett has taught percussion to students for over 25 years. He has arranged music for percussion ensemble and has written several practice manuals for his students. Mr. Bassett frequently presents clinics and masterclasses and is a Pearl Drums, USA Concert Artist for Adams Percussion. Presently, he maintains a home teaching studio.
Mr. Bassett operates a home business repairing percussion instruments, timpani mallets, and calfskin timpani heads. Matt resides in Buffalo with his daughter and his partner Kathleen Bassett, a music educator, choral conductor, and vocal soloist.