© 2025 Matthew Ryals. All rights reserved.
Are you looking to study with a passionate and dedicated teacher? I’ve worked as a musician and music instructor for over 15 years. Teaching is a core part of my creative life, and I believe in the invaluable feedback loop that comes from sharing and receiving. My teaching practice centers on nurturing self-expression, developing personal yet proficient technical approaches to your medium, and fostering a well-rounded music education. I’m a committed instructor who deeply values helping others grow, expand, and realize their vision.
As a teacher, I’ve led masterclasses at universities, designed educational programs at studios in NYC, taught numerous courses for other organizations, and mentored hundreds of students in my own programs.
My students are often adults or teenagers who want personalized instruction in the broad categories of electronic music, synthesis, and guitar. Many are discovering music making for the first time, pursuing a passion they’ve had since childhood, enthusiastic hobbyists, or practicing artists. My students have launched careers, integrated a new skillset into their profession, found a deeply fulfilling hobby, or even went on to study at academic institutions.
At the moment, I offer lessons, workshops, and full courses. See below for current offerings!
Lesson Programs
Personalized 1:1 instruction in Modular Synthesis, Music Production & Songwriting, or Guitar. Lessons are available for all levels and ages.
Sessions focus on building solid fundamentals while nurturing your unique artistic voice through creative, bespoke projects.
Online and in-person lessons in NYC are available now.
Sessions focus on building solid fundamentals while nurturing your unique artistic voice through creative, bespoke projects.
Online and in-person lessons in NYC are available now.
Learn More + Sign Up
Patching With Modular Synthesizers
Virtual Edition
An online 4-day workshop on modular synthesis in VCV Rack! Learn the fundamentals of synthesis in a fun group environment. For beginners! No experience or hardware required.
Each day, we’ll explore new concepts and patching techniques—diving into fundamental modules, the basics of signal flow, sound design, and practical strategies for building complete tracks with a modular synthesizer.
PWMS wrapped up its most recent edition in Feb 2025. Sign up to join the waiting list and to be notified about upcoming editions!
Your First Modular Synth
Affordable online consultations focused specifically on building your first modular synthesizer system.
I’ll help you cut through the dizzying array of options, map out your needs, find affordable solutions, and design a fun and inspiring system.
Sessions are booked online. 2-4 sessions are recommended.
Building A Life In Music
Affordable online consultations on how to make real progress as a professional musician and pursuing your passion in a sustainable way.
Topics covered include day-to-day admin work, making connections, booking tours, practice routines, organization hacks, building a community around your work, and much more.
Sessions are booked online. 2-4 sessions are recommended.
A Crash Course Into
Eurorack Modular Synthesis
A one-day crash course designed to jumpstart your journey into modular synthesis. No hardware or prior experience needed! Perfect for complete beginners, whether you're a musician or just curious.
We’ll dive into patching together and cover the essentials: understanding core modules, building foundational patches, and exploring creative, eye-opening techniques that will have you making music and experimenting right away.
This workshop regularly reaches capacity. Join the waitlist to be notified early about the next session.