Currently a MM in Choral Conducting at Temple University's Boyer College of Music and Dance, Matt Lista has worked in public education for the past 12 years and in church music for the past 16 years. After receiving his BM in Music Education and Voice from Temple (BYR '13), Matt worked in NE Philadelphia for two years as a General Music Teacher, Choir Director, and Strings Teacher for students in grades K - 8. After designing that school's music curriculum and initiating its choral program, Matt continued his teaching career in Southern Chester County, PA as a General Music Teacher and Choir Director for grades 2 - 6. While in his second teaching position, Matt completed his MM in Music Education Technology from West Chester University ('18). Throughout his career as an educator, Matt has launched new choral programs and written various curricula all while fostering a love for music through interactive movement and music-making. Matt's students have participated in PMEA Choral festivals as well as adjudications annually. Matt has also been in various church music jobs from 2009 to the present day; including directing choirs, orchestras, bells, and as a soloist. In 2024, Matt returned to Temple University full time to complete his MM in Conducting and begin pursuing some higher education career goals. Through this program, Matt hopes to pivot to teaching music, music education, and conducting in higher education while maintaining professional conducting positions in the liturgical and community spheres. Matt currently lives in the southern suburbs of Philadelphia with his wife, Rachel, two daughters, Charlotte (3) and Thea (1), and their cat, Winston.