Mat Mathews facts for kids

Mat Mathews, whose full name was Mathieu Hubert Wijnandts Schwarts, was a talented jazz accordion player from the Netherlands. He was born on June 18, 1924, and passed away on February 12, 2009. He was known for his unique style and contributions to jazz music.

Early Life and Musical Start

Mat Mathews grew up in The Hague, a city in the Netherlands. He started learning to play the accordion during a tough time. This was when his country was occupied during World War II. After the war ended, Mat heard a musician named Joe Mooney playing jazz on the radio. This inspired Mat to become a jazz musician himself.

Moving to New York and a Busy Career

In 1952, Mat Mathews moved to New York City in the United States. There, he formed his own music group, a quartet, which included the famous musician Herbie Mann. Mat also had the chance to work with many other well-known jazz artists. These included Kenny Clarke, Art Farmer, Carmen McRae, and Oscar Pettiford.

During the late 1950s, Mat often worked as a session musician. This means he played on recordings for other artists. In 1964, he moved back to the Netherlands. There, he continued his music career as an arranger, helping to create musical pieces. He also worked as a record producer, helping to make albums. In the 1970s, he returned to the US and played with musicians like Charlie Byrd and Clark Terry.

Mat Mathews' Music Albums

Mat Mathews released several albums during his career. These albums show his unique accordion style in jazz music.

• Mat Mathews (Brunswick, 1953)
• The Modern Art of Jazz (Dawn, 1956)
• Accordion Solos (Brunswick, 1956)
• Eddie Costa, Mat Mathews & Don Elliott at Newport (Verve, 1957)
• Swingin' Pretty and All That Jazz (1959)
• Meditation (Jazz World, 1995)
• Live at Music Room (1996)
• The Gentle Art of Love (2004)

Playing with Other Artists

Mat Mathews also played on albums for other musicians. One notable album was with the singer Carmen McRae.

• With Carmen McRae: Carmen McRae (Bethlehem, 1955)