Parenting Panel with Matt Alter
Balancing a demanding career, family life as well as a long standing relationship with music is not easy, but for this Charlotte based songwriter, those worlds have never really been separate.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Matthew Alter’s path back to music was not immediate or linear. It unfolded more gradually, shaped by responsibility, reflection and a deep commitment to staying true to himself.
In this exclusive conversation, Matt talks openly about parenthood, creativity and the principles that guide both his life and his songwriting, offering a thoughtful look at how family, music and perspective continue to influence his work and music.
How many children do you have? And what are their names and ages?
I have 2 children and my wife has 3 children. All are adults and we now have 3 Grandkids.
Did you have fears or concerns about how becoming a parent would interfere with your artistic endeavors?
Thankfully, no. As I started to get into music and my music career, my kids were also into music and learning how to play their respective instruments.
At one point, my old band needed a fill in drummer for a gig and my youngest joined us on drums at the gig. That was a highlight for me!!!
In what ways has parenthood helped your creativity, if any?
I think that in some of my songs, I am trying to convey some advice to my kids.
What has parenthood taught you about yourself, your music, or your creative process?
I am a very principled person. I truly believe that right is right and wrong is wrong. Say what you mean and mean what you say. Ect. Ect.
When I write songs, I really try to be very true to myself and what I believe. Those are principles that I hope I have instilled in my children.
How do you juggle your family and your career? Who’s your support system?
Well, my biggest supporter is my wife. Without her support, I would probably just be sitting in my studio and strumming my guitar, never thinking about recording and playing my original stuff.
What’s one thing you wish someone had told you before you became a parent? Any advice for others?
I was actually told to enjoy the kids when they were young because it goes by so fast. That was actually told to me. I did enjoy my time, but we get so caught up in the day in and day out routine, they grow up so fast and that part of our lives is gone in the blink of an eye. Savor those moments.
Do your children inspire / inform your music?
My children are adults now and they still inspire me on a daily basis, not just with my music. I do send them songs and look for their feedback. I value their opinions.
Not every artist parent incorporates their children into their music - if you do not is this a conscious decision?
I do try to keep the kids separate from my lyrical content. I have undertaken this journey, they have not. I really feel that I should not drag them into the public forum.
Listen to Matt Alter’s latest single release “Tossed Away” here:
A lifetime of music is the best way to describe my life. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. Once I graduated High School, I purchased my first guitar. The first few years I was self taught. Eventually, I found a great instructor and took lessons for a few years, until I left for medical school. As with all things in life, life got in the way and the guitar was set aside. I started a family and relocated to Richmond, VA.
The desire to play never left. After I was set in my career as a Surgeon, I found myself being drawn back to the guitar. I have had the opportunity to play in multiple cover and original bands in the Richmond, VA area.
Now, I am living in Charlotte NC and after all of this time, I released my first solo album of material, The Bitter Pill, which was released on 2/14/2020. My second solo album, Race to the Finish was released 12/5/2021. My third album, Did I Offend You? was produced and mixed by Tavis Stanley of Art of Dying fame and was released on 12/15/2023.
My 4th solo album, once again produced by Tavis Stanley, will be released on March 6, 2026. I have put together a great group of musicians and I am looking forward to bring the music to the stage.
Keep up with Matt Alter on his Website