Matt Boylan-Smith Musician

fahl Boylan-Smith Musician Matt Boylan-Smith MusicianPosted November 26, 2013, by Julia Watters I have always loved music, always sung but never thought it was something that people would want to come watch. Matt Boylan-Smith is a self-described travelling troubadour, whose travels have already landed him in some pretty amazing venues alongside some Australian music icons. Having shared a stage with performers such as Ash Grunwald, Tim Friedman, The Choirboys and The Potbelleez, he is edging ever closer to the headliner spotlight himself. Matt recently performed at the Australian Independent Music Awards, where he was a finalist in the Acoustic/Singer-Songwriter category, as well as at the 40th anniversary celebrations for the Sydney Opera House. We spoke to Matt about why he chose the life of a muso and what has helped him turn his passion from open mic to Opera House. Did you always want to be a musician? I thought everyone always wanted to be one? Alas, this is not always the cas e. I have always loved music, always sung but never thought it was something that people would want to come watch. Only since my first couple of years at university did I want to become a musician, and even then it was something that evolved out of happenstance. What was your first instrument? I played a little piano at school, but nothing more than school level. I was always interested in different instruments, the sounds they could make and their histories, but never gave it much practical attention. With this in mind I would have to say that my first instrument was the guitar. When did the music dream start for you? It started at university at open mic nights and playing around with friends. It seemed like a fun thing to be involved with and was a central parte of peoples socialising. In a self-actualisation sense, it came when I walked past a second-hand music store and laid hands on my first real (stage) guitar. Upon owning and playing a quality instrument I felt I had to play it with the skill it deserved, and at that point I started to see myself playing music professionally. What has been the highlight of your career so far? I have a few, but recently I was asked to perform at the Sydney Opera House as part of the 40th anniversary celebrations. Just being backstage in the green room knowing the performers who had been there in the past was overwhelming. What is one of the most challenging things about life as a musician? Its sometimes quite a solitary existence. Although Im not afraid of quiet introspection, sometimes its difficult not partaking in normal, socially accepted work. What is your study background? I studied Communications Advertising at Charles Sturt University in Bathurst. If you could go back a few years, what would you do to help your music career? I would have started working harder on my writing. Its something you have to constantly work on. Being able to write good copy doesnt necessarily mean being a great songwriter. Who is your ul timate music icon? Justin Vernon, aka Bon Iver. Hes freakishly talented and constantly pushes boundaries with his music. Apart from that, his obscure lyrics are thoughtful and thought-provoking. You can find out more about Matts musical journey and see his upcoming gigs on his website. ResourcesMy first resumeCover letter for my first jobCareer Insider StoriesShelley Lask - Body Positive Health & FitnessInterested in becoming a?Human Resources OfficerGeneral ManagerBusiness ManagerAccountantOffice AdministratorPopular Career Searcheshow to become a journalist in australiajournalism tafediploma of communication and media onlinemedia buying and planning course onlinecertificate iv in communication and media CoursesBachelor of Social WorkEnquire Online Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Health AdministrationEnquire Online Enquire OnlineBachelor of Criminal JusticeEnquire Online Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Allied Health AssistanceEnquire Online Enquire OnlineJulia WattersRelated Arti clesBrowse moreEMPLOYER RESOURCESWork etiquettePreventing the spread of flu in the officeWith winter almost upon us, flu season is approaching so it would be wise to start thinking about what you can do to help prevent catching and spreading the dreaded lurgy.Career FAQs welcomes Southern Cross and Deakin UniversityCareer FAQs welcomes Southern Cross University and Deakin University as two new tertiary education partners.ChristmasVolunteeringChristmas - Tis The Season To Give BackChristmas is the season of giving and what better gift to give than your time Weve put together a list of volunteer ideas, from gift wrapping to becoming a digital mentor, to get you in the warm and fuzzy Christmas spirit.