Matthew Mayer | Piano Artist

What initially drew you to this field/profession/industry?

I discovered the piano and took a liking to writing at the age of twelve. Ever since then, I was hooked and wanted to perform, teach, speak and compose in some capacity. At USD, though I graduated with a business degree, I also took several fine arts courses. Over time, the combination of business and music just made sense for my life, and the journey took me in that direction.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their career in this field?

A combined career in business and music/fine arts is also a career in entrepreneurship. I would encourage anyone who has a creative passion, whether that is playing music, creating art, writing, etc., to also initially have a 9-5 job that fits other skill sets you have. This allows you to get a financial stride for yourself and invest that back into your creative gifts. It’s okay not to do something “creatively” full-time right away (or ever if it doesn’t fit your life’s puzzle). That doesn’t make you less of an artist or musician. In fact, over time it will build more skill sets like people skills, business acumen, negotiation skills etc., that you can use to build your creative business in the long run.

Overnight success for most musicians/creatives is more like 20 years, so that’s the road I took to now being full time musician - writing, composing, performing and speaking on this topic. After receiving my MBA, I worked in banking for 20 years, but at the same time kept releasing music and performing when I could. So when the time was right, I was ready to make the leap.

Whatever it is you are passionate about, just don't ever, ever, ever, EVER give up on it. Keep it going in some way shape or form, in any capacity you can. Be open to new opportunities as they present themselves, and it’s okay to not feel like you are on a “normal” path.

How do you balance work and personal life?

This is a tricky one and honestly don't know if I am balancing it well or not. You just go all in on everything. I try to balance my energy and focus on what works well that brings me the most energy when it matters. Whether that's kids, music, getting ready for another podcast guest, or making sure I get the lawn mowed.

What are some things you do to stay engaged with USD, fellow professionals, alumni?

USD has been the source of life long friends that I continue to keep in touch with almost on a daily basis. There are so many inspirational people that have come out of USD, and having that “USD connection” with them, is truly special. Also, nothing beats coming back for Dakota Days and running into old pals, reminiscing of stories!

What are some things you've learned in your current role, or from your mentors?

One of my mentors while attending USD was William “Doc” Farber. He really stressed the importance of finding your passion and never letting that “spark” burn out. Having him as a mentor and also having performed several piano shows in USD’s Farber Hall named after him, was a truly special experience. Those intimate shows with support from friends on campus were some of my most treasured memories at USD.

In this musical path, I have learned that our greatest journey is that of discovering ourselves and finding what it is that we can share and contribute to others. No matter how perceived big or small that might be. It’s your journey, it’s your passion, and it’s yours to share.

I was also lucky to have Dr. Tosterud as my entrepreneurship teacher in the Business School. After graduating undergrad, we worked together to build out a course called “The Business of Music” to focus on elements that brought both the Business School and Fine Arts Departments together. I taught that course for a semester - we focused on business side of the music industry, brought in guest speakers, and it was a blast. I would love to come back and teach at USD in the same capacity combining the music/business disciplines and be an advocate for students wanting to chase their dreams.

To read more about Matthew and find his music, you can visit his website here.