Long Bio
Matthew Denman
Educator • Composer • Arts Leader • Visionary Builder
Matthew Denman is an educator, composer, and arts leader recognized nationally and internationally for his innovative approach to music education. A protégé of Pepe Romero, Denman unites artistry with visionary leadership, building programs that redefine access, excellence, and innovation in the arts.
He serves as Associate Professor of Guitar at Oklahoma City University and Executive Director of the Leyenda Foundation, where he has created transformative initiatives such as the Celedonio Romero Institute, the Charlie Christian Jazz Institute (developed with Mark Whitfield and Chip Henderson), the John Knowles Fingerstyle Institute, Leyenda Dance, and Leyenda Spark, a national mentorship program for emerging artists. These projects weave together world-class performance, teacher training, and accessible pathways for students—bridging genres and cultivating community through music.
Denman also founded the Leyenda Label and publishing arm, a groundbreaking artist-first platform that reimagines how institutions support musicians. By maximizing artist revenue and reinvesting in education and community programs, the label reflects his belief that creative work should sustainably support the people who make it.
For more than a decade, Denman directed one of the nation’s most celebrated public-school guitar programs while simultaneously expanding OCU’s offerings into a nationally recognized hub for pre-college and collegiate study. His leadership has been honored with multiple national awards and was acknowledged through the GRAMMY Music Educator Award process, and his students and alumni now thrive as performers, teachers, and leaders worldwide.
As a performer and composer, Denman has been published by Les Productions d’Oz and appeared internationally in concert and masterclass across the U.S., Europe, and Asia—including the Oberlin Conservatory, Cleveland Institute of Music, Stella Vorarlberg Music University, and the Central Conservatory in Beijing. His work has been featured in Soundboard magazine, Bill Swick’s Building an Award-Winning Guitar Program (Oxford University Press), and Pepe Romero’s Dialogues on a Life’s Journey with the Guitar.
Denman’s career is defined by a clear vision: to cultivate communities where artistry, creativity, and access to music education empower the next generation of musicians.
Short Bio
Matthew Denman is an educator, composer, and visionary arts leader. A protégé of Pepe Romero, he serves as Associate Professor at Oklahoma City University and Executive Director of the Leyenda Foundation, where he has created landmark initiatives such as the Celedonio Romero Institute, the Charlie Christian Jazz Institute, and the Leyenda Label. His leadership—recognized with multiple national awards and acknowledged through the GRAMMY Music Educator Award process—has been celebrated internationally for redefining access, excellence, and innovation in the arts.
What the World’s Leading Artists Are Saying
Endorsements from legendary classical icons, Grammy-winning artists, global performers, and chart-topping musicians reflect the extraordinary breadth and depth of Matthew Denman’s influence across genres, generations, and the international music landscape.
Pepe Romero
Legendary Classical Guitarist
“I have to say that this institute exists because in Matthew Denman, my brother and I found the perfect partner. I’ve had the opportunity to witness his extraordinary ability as a great educator — bringing together the guitar and students from all over the world. I pay tribute to his remarkable contribution.”
Henry Dillon
Surf Curse / Current Joys
“I consider my time studying with Matthew Denman to be the catalyst that set in motion a lifelong passion and curiosity for musical learning. In his students, Matthew inspires a dedication to the rigorous discipline required to advance the technical craft of playing the guitar, while still encouraging and emphasizing the importance of patience with oneself and trust in one’s own developmental process.
Matthew respects and champions the sacred, mysterious nature of music and is curious to explore all territories of experience — from the emotional to the spiritual, and beyond. He exudes an inexhaustible kindness and compassion that touches all he comes in contact with. He is a profound light and a masterful teacher.”
Jason Vieaux
Grammy Award–Winning Guitarist
“What Matthew Denman and the Leyenda Foundation are accomplishing is truly remarkable. I was eager to help expand their impact — offering inspiration and musical education to the next generation.”
Mark Whitfield
Renowned Jazz Guitarist & Recording Artist
“My experience at the inaugural Charlie Christian Institute summer session was nothing short of amazing! Together with Matthew Denman, they have created something magnificent.”
