How many cellists can sight-read a Bach suite and invent a pop hook on the spot?Matthew Nelson is that rare musician — classically trained, yet fluent in the Nashville number system. A go-to player for sessions and live work alike, he bridges notation and improvisation with ease. Whether you read dots or numbers, you’ll find deep insight and quiet mastery in this conversation.

How many cellists can sight-read a Bach suite and invent a pop hook on the spot? Matthew Nelson is that rare musician — classically trained, yet fluent in the Nashville number system. A go-to player for sessions and live work alike, he bridges notation and improvisation with ease. Whether you read dots or numbers, you’ll find deep insight and quiet mastery in this conversation.

Matthew Nelson: Classical Chops, Pop Chops

What if creative success isn’t just about fame or money? What myths keep us from fully embracing our creative potential?

Off The Charts explores these questions through conversations with artists, musicians, writers, and other creative voices — as well as reflections from host Lionel Cartwright, a lifelong recording artist, songwriter, composer, and music director.

By looking beyond metrics of popularity and sales, the show uncovers fresh perspectives on what a creative life can look like. Each episode is designed to encourage you to trust and engage your own creativity — wherever and however it’s expressed.

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What if creative success isn’t just about fame or money? What myths keep us from fully embracing our creative potential? Off The Charts explores these questions through conversations with artists, musicians, writers, and other creative voices — as well as reflections from host Lionel Cartwright, a lifelong recording artist, songwriter, composer, and music director. By looking beyond metrics of popularity and sales, the show uncovers fresh perspectives on what a creative life can look like. Each episode is designed to encourage you to trust and engage your own creativity — wherever and however it’s expressed.

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Matthew Nelson: Classical Chops, Pop Chops

Matthew Nelson: Classical Chops, Pop Chops