Matthew Lee began violin lessons in Raleigh with Rawls Violin Studio & Performance in the Fall of 2017. He had made significant development on his own and was already capable of playing some of the easier Vivaldi and Bach concertos. Over the past 7 years, he spent countless hours honing his craft, carefully applying himself to his art through etudes, scales, solo, chamber and orchestral repertoire. Matthew has been a leading member of the Enloe High School Orchestra, The Triangle Youth Philharmonic, and The North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics Orchestra. He was also a member of the Eastern Regional Orchestra in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 and selected as a member of the North Carolina Honors Orchestra in 2024.

Over the time I have spent with him, Matthew has become one of the best violin students I have yet to have the opportunity to work with. His dedication to improvement is matched only by his positive attitude and willingness to bring his absolute best to every occasion. He has developed an impeccable sense of rhythm, a strong ear for the finest intonation, and a sound quality that accurately affects the artistry intended by the composer. He also demonstrates a level of character that belies his youth: Matthew is punctual, polite, and very much a team player, helping others to reach for a higher level of musicianship at every available opportunity. His demeanor, like his playing, has a calming and positive effect.

I could not be more proud of Matthew Lee, the progress he has made, the way in which he has grown both as an artist and as a person. His future is very bright, and he would be a welcome addition to any ensemble or group. As Matthew moves on to attend Duke University in the Fall of 2024, all of us at Rawls Violin Studio & Performance wish him the absolute best and look forward to seeing all of the wonderful things his future has in store. Congratulations Matthew!