Ronda Matson: Bio

The Old Picture Show

From the moment I began studying piano at the age of 10, it never occurred to me to play only what was written. Tunes and words have always seemed to dance in my head. I received my first guitar at the same age, a little child’s guitar that was a gift of sorts, rescued from Martha's music store window. The sun’s rays had burned a hole in its side. (Strangely, I never thought that little guitar sounded bad.)  I was in a "girl group" the same year, singing at the Mother/Daughter banquet at church-- The Beatles' "Your Mother Can Tell"--and at school.  Our mothers even made us matching dresses!  Classical piano was the main thing, though.  It was the most captivating musical adventure and I continued formal piano study past high school. 

I became addicted to the theatre quite early.  High school and college allowed me to expand my experiences beyond roles in musicals and plays to writing, composing and directing for student productions, including a traveling college production I called, “Love is in the Wings: A Rodgers and Hart Musical Revue.” As choreographer for “Cabaret,” “Anything Goes,” “The Pirates of Penzance,” and “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown” at the college level, I gained valuable experience and had such FUN!  I graduated with a degree in English from Muhlenberg College.

Today, I write & perform songs on guitar that reflect my experiences. The harmonica adds something special I can't really describe... Maybe I just enjoy the challenge of playing two instruments at once! I studied voice with the amazing Shoshana Feinstein for many years and classical guitar with the incredible Robert Torres. I was also fortunate to study violin with Luis Antonio Ibanez & taught myself to play my grandfather’s 1920’s mandolin.  I doubt there are enough hours in the day to satisfy my interest in stringed instruments. Though I may explore new ones, nothing touches me quite like the lovely tones of the acoustic guitar.

Bob Matson, husband, father, financial wizard (and Ultimate Roadie) is my safety net. We have four amazing children-- Erin, Amanda, Bobby and John.