Matt Stuart's original piano compositions are a blend of classical, folk, and world music. His unique style has been described as spiritual, lyrical, mystical, and passionate. His music touches the hearts and souls of his listeners. Matt sees music as a means to communicate that which is beyond words. It is a means to communicate profound meaning though music that is both accessible and moving. He seeks to bring the listener into a place of peace, joy, and wonder. In the artist's own words, "Cradle of the Moon" is the most inspired work I've ever done. Every aspect of the project fit together wonderfully. I had the honor to work with award-winning producer Dennis Dragon and world class engineer Emmett Sargeant. The album was recorded over three magical nights at Tantrum Studios ("Abbey Road West") in Montecito, CA. in April 2007 on a Yamaha CS Concert Grand Piano. BIO: Matt began playing the piano at the age of four. As a young child, he studied piano at the Northwestern University Conservatory of Music in his native Chicago - concentrating on the works of the classical masters. He displayed a passion for music immediately. His parents were fans of the cinema - taking him and his younger brother to movies every weekend. He was intrigued by the musical scores of the films and immediately upon returning home would sit down at the piano and play the movie themes. As a child, Matt was particulary inspired by Miklos Rozsa's score to the film "Ben Hur" - seeing the film initially three times "just to hear the music." Through the years, Matt continued his music studies with a series of private teachers - studying classical and popular music. He is a graduate of UCLA where he majored in music and psychology. He studied music theory, piano, film scoring, and ethnomusicology - music indigenous to cultures around the world. While at UCLA, he appeared in the movie "Hello Dolly" and was a winner with his musical group on television's "Your All-American College Show"- the "American Idol" and "Star Search" of its' day. He also appeared on the "Academy Awards" show with the UCLA band performing a nominated song of the year. His music emanates from the heart and soul and touches the lives of his listeners. Matt is a proud member of American Federation of Musicians, Hollywood, CA. and member of BMI. Matt's music can also be found under the name Matt & Rebecca Stuart and Minstrel Streams