Matthew Nelson (AZ) – Past Concerts

Matthew Nelson is an ethnomusicologist and host of Global Rhythm Radio on KXCI FM who has studied a variety of drumming traditions with master musicians, including tabla (melodic drums of North India) with Pandit Sharda Sahai of the Benares gharana of tabla. While working as an archaeologist, Matthew became interested in the ceramic tradition of the Southwest, and combined with his love for indigenous music began an exploration of clay pot percussion. He also served as the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer and NAGPRA Consultant for the Bishop Paiute Tribe in the Owens Valley of California where he grew up. Matthew has spent hundreds of days within Grand Canyon and worked there for over a decade as a backpacking guide. He lives off-the-grid in the Sonoran Desert southwest of Tucson and works as the Executive Director of the Arizona Trail Association.