In the vibrant heart of Nashville, where every street corner hums with the promise of a new tune, Andre Madatian reflects on his extraordinary journey in music. “I was fortunate to know at a young age that music was my passion,” he shares, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. After studying music in college, a visit to Nashville during his studies sealed the deal. “I fell in love with the small-town feel and the openness of the music community. It felt like home.”
Like many aspiring musicians, Andre dove headfirst into the local scene, frequenting open jam nights to build connections. “In about nine months, I landed my first touring gig, and I was off playing guitar across the U.S. and internationally,” he recalls. The power of connections is palpable in Nashville; friends often become the key to new opportunities.
One of the most impactful experiences came when Andre performed for U.S. troops overseas. “Playing for our troops has been one of the most humbling experiences of my career,” he says. His first trip took him to Amman, Jordan, where he spent Christmas Eve entertaining soldiers. “The gratitude we received was incredible.” A subsequent visit to Kuwait further solidified this connection. “I met Tori Payne, an EOD unit member who is also a guitarist. She built me a custom guitar, which now holds a special place in my home studio—a constant reminder of the sacrifices our troops make.”
Andre’s love for music isn’t just about performance; it extends to education. After earning his Master’s in music composition during the pandemic, he embraced teaching. Now a full-time professor at Tennessee State University, he shares his passion with students, guiding them through music appreciation, arranging, and live sound reinforcement. “Teaching has been a joy, exposing students to different types of music,” he explains.
Touring with notable artists like Raelynn and Kane Brown has also shaped his career. One standout memory was performing at Fenway Park, a dream come true for the Boston native. “As a Red Sox fan, playing there was surreal,” he admits, recalling how he walked past his old apartment and soaked in the nostalgia of his college days.
Performing at the Grand Ole Opry for the first time was another milestone. “It felt like a rite of passage. I was the first one there, eager to soak in the history,” he recalls with excitement. The experience was even sweeter with family in attendance, making it a night to remember.
As Andre shares wisdom with his students, he emphasizes the importance of commitment: “You get out of your education what you put into it. Show up, be present, and be punctual. These values are crucial in the music industry.”
In this season of gratitude, Andre expresses heartfelt thanks for the support of his wife and parents, whose sacrifices shaped his journey. “I keep a gratitude list on my phone, reminding me of the good in life,” he says.
His parting message resonates deeply: “Support your local musicians! They are the foundation of the music industry. A simple like or share on social media can make a difference.” Andre Madatian’s journey is a testament to passion, connection, and the unwavering power of music.