Matthew Xie - lute, theorbo, & guitar
Meet Matt
Matthew Xie is an internationally active lutenist specializing in Historically Plucked Strings (lute, theorbo, baroque guitar). Well-versed in historical performance, he is particularly passionate about historical artistic expression in 17th–18th century Italian recitatives. He captivates audiences in the US and abroad with his sensitive and energetic solo and chamber performances.
Recent notable engagements include: Handel’s Alcina and Giulio Cesare (Saluzzo Opera Academy, Summer 2024); a Magnificat tour with I Cantori (December 2024); a solo French lute program at Rancho Flaubert (February 16); Ensemble Affect’s "Home Away from Home" tour featured on SFEMS (March 28–30); and Nash Baroque/Dance through Time’s "Emperor of the Moon" ballet (June 6–8).
Matthew holds a Master’s in Historical Performance magna cum laude from the Koninklijk Conservatorium (full scholarship) and is an alumnus of Holland Baroque’s prestigious Samama Fellowship (2020–2021). He also holds graduate degrees from SF Conservatory and the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis. Based in San Francisco, he is a sought-after continuo player, soloist, and instructor.