Blind Singer Songwriter Matt Mclaren | Australian Musician | Blind Keyboard Player | Inspirational Musician

Matt McLaren

Location: Newcastle, NSW

Challenge: Blind

Since the tender age of three Matt knew that music was his calling. Growing up in a small country town- Denman, (located in the Hunter Valley) Matt was easily recognizable and well known and not just because of his Visual Impairment but his sheer musical talent.

Taking instantly to the piano Matt continued lessons from the age of 3 until 16. Even though he is classically trained Matt now gravitates towards pop, funk, dance and blues covers. When Matt isn't playing covers his music draws inspiration from a wide variety of artists- Especially "The Cat Empire". The keyboardist- Ollie McGill Matt credits as the reason he moved on from classical music- "I just had no idea you could play keyboard like that!".

Matt has been performing professionally full time around the Newcastle region at local venues, weddings, corporate events and functions. Some of which to name include Newcastle Jets home games, Guide Dog Victoria Annual Ball and various food and wine festivals.

When Matt isn't playing he also runs a recording studio. Since it's launch in 2010 S&M Productions has been busy recording and producing local and national artists. Services range from producing, scoring, multimedia, jingles and songwriting.

In late 2015 Matt took the first steps in auditioning for "Australia's Got Talent" and was successful in progressing through to the filmed judges audition. For this audition he performed an acoustic version of "All of Me”- John Legend which received a standing ovation and 4 yes's from the judges.

The next stage of the competition saw Matt joined on stage with 3 backup singers to perform "Not the Only One” by Sam Smith which was once again met with a standing ovation and overwhelming positive responses from the judges. Unfortunately he did not receive the judges vote that night but the public vote saw him through to the grand finals.

Matt and his guide dog Stamford have travelled nationally and internationally and Matt hopes to continue to take his music to new heights.

Matt Mclaren - Australia's Got Talent 2016 Grand Final