Album Notes

Born in 1940 in Long Beach, California, Walt Matherly's interest in music began with listening to his mother play the piano, then, at age 5, he took some piano lessons. In grade school he took up the violin, playing in the school orchestra through junior high. He acquired his first guitar at the age of 12, a Sears Roebuck Silvertone that he attempted to play along with the radio. He did not take lessons and did not know how to tune his instrument, but learned to play by ear.

Being a sculptor/furniture maker, a stone mason/builder, and homesteader, first in the Alaskan wilderness (1968-1972) and later in Mendocino County for over 30 years, only begins to describe some of the interests Walt has pursued in his life. As a musician he has been a member of several local bands, playing not only guitar, but also stand-up bass, jarana and harmonica. In recent years, and as a demonstration of both his sense of humor and a desire to have a fuller sound, Walt created his own rhythm section, using his feet to play maracas, tambourine and wood block along with the guitar.

13 Songs from the Heart clearly reflects the work of an independent thinking, sensitive and musically creative songwriter.