Matt Patella began playing drums in 1958 at age 12. Soon after, he began playing in Drum and Bugle Corp with the Woodsider Cadets, and Saint Lucys Cadets. Eager to learn he studied with local teachers Carl Wolf and Charley Tappan. He went on to play in his high school marching and big bands. In 1967 Matt joined the US Army and was in the 174th, and 15th US Army Band. Throughout his early career he studied with many local teachers but, none was more influential than Joe Morello.

On and off for 30 years Matt Studied with Joe Morello. Matt studied Morellos natural/Stone technique and began playing with many high profile national acts including Jimmy Smith, Gene Krupa, Wes Montgomery,  Toots Thielemans, Shirelles, Jerry Lee Lewis, Chubby Checker and many more. Matt has also play in productions of Jesus Christ Superstar, West Side Story and The Pajama Game.

For the past two decades Matt Patella has been dedicated to education. He teaches professionally at his home studio. Matt is currently working on a book showcasing all of his technique.