WHO WAS MATT LAPORTE: THE MUSIC, THE PASSION, THE LEGEND
Matt LaPorte wasn't just a local guitar teacher – he was a rockstar in Europe. Fans there knew him for his electrifying performances with the band Jon Oliva's Pain.
At Seminole Music and Sound, where he taught for over 15 years, Matt was known for pushing his students to reach their full potential. He did this with encouragement and a signature beverage – cherry Diet Dr Pepper from the hallway vending machine.
While his music roared, Matt himself was known for his quiet demeanor. A vegetarian who loved cheese pizza and veggie subs, he didn't boast about his achievements. But his students knew – they were learning from a master.
Matt was born in Clearwater and spent part of his childhood in Minnesota before returning to Florida. He picked up his first electric guitar at 12 and quickly excelled. He even left a professional guitar school after just one semester, claiming he already knew everything they taught.
He played in various local bands before joining Big Brother, a popular act at Gators Cafe and Saloon. In 2003, he joined a band that later became Jon Oliva's Pain, launching his European stardom.
Matt passed in 2011. While he is gone, his memory lives on. Tara Jennings, wife of longtime friend of Matt, Jason Jennings, will be celebrating Matt’s life through a 20 mile walk fundraiser that would support the Matt LaPorte Music Scholarship at St. Petersburg College. This scholarship was established by the late Sharon LaPorte, Matt’s mother, who always believed in him and his talents.
November 16, 2024, please join Tara on her training journey for the 20 mile walk across Downtown Clearwater on the Pinellas Trail.
Also, we hope you would make a contribution of support to the scholarship to honor Matt’s legacy.
What an incredible achievement! Tara has officially completed her 20-mile walk in support of the Matthew LaPorte Music Scholarship, and we couldn’t be prouder. Her determination, resilience, and dedication have not only honored Matt’s memory but also inspired our entire community.
Why This Walk Matters
The funds raised through Tara’s journey will directly support the Matthew LaPorte Music Scholarship at St. Petersburg College, helping aspiring music students pursue their dreams. Matt, a beloved musician and teacher, left behind a legacy of passion for both creating and sharing music. This scholarship ensures that his spirit lives on by empowering students to reach their full potential in music education and performance.
What’s Next?
The funds generated from this walk will:
- Provide scholarships to deserving students who share Matt’s love for music.
- Enhance educational opportunities, allowing students to access instruments, music programs, and other essential resources.
- Keep Matt’s memory alive, reminding us of the transformative power of music education.
A Big Thank You!
We extend our deepest gratitude to Tara for her unwavering commitment and to everyone who supported her along the way. Your cheers, donations, and encouragement made this event a resounding success. Together, we’ve created an opportunity for talented students to learn, grow, and thrive through the power of music.
🎵 Stay tuned for updates on how these scholarships are making a difference in the lives of St. Petersburg College students.
Congratulations again, Tara—you are a true inspiration!
#WalkForMatt #MusicEducation #SPCStrong
566 days ago by Theresa McFarland🌟 We’re thrilled to share an incredible update on Tara’s inspiring 20-mile walk in honor of music legend Matt LaPorte. She’s officially passed the 15-mile mark! That’s right—more than three-quarters of the way done, and she’s powering through with determination, grit, and the love of an entire community behind her. 💪💙
Every step Tara takes is a tribute to Matt’s extraordinary legacy—not just as a talented musician but as a beloved teacher who shared his passion and inspired so many. His spirit shines brightly in moments like these, reminding us of the power of music, love, and perseverance.
As Tara approaches the final stretch, let’s rally even harder to keep her spirits high! 🚶♀️👏 Whether you’ve been following along since mile one or are just tuning in now, there’s still time to cheer her on and show your support.
💡 How can you help?
- Share your words of encouragement in the comments below! A simple “You’ve got this, Tara!” can mean the world.
- Spread the word about this incredible cause—Matt’s legacy deserves to be celebrated far and wide.
- Consider contributing to the fundraising effort if you can. Every bit helps keep the love for music and teaching alive!
Tara, you’re almost there! The finish line is in sight, and we’re all behind you, cheering you on with every step. Keep walking for Matt, for music, and for a brighter future. We’re so proud of you! 🎉🎵
Stay tuned for the big finish—we know it’s going to be epic. 🏁✨
#WalkForMatt #TaraStrong #MusicMatters #InspiringJourney
568 days ago by Theresa McFarlandThis isn’t just any walk—it’s a heartfelt mission to honor the legacy of music extraordinaire Matt LaPorte, who touched countless lives with his passion for music and teaching before his passing in 2011. 💙✨
20 miles is no small feat, but Tara is taking each step with determination and love. Let’s rally around her and show our support! Drop your words of encouragement, cheers, and positive vibes here to help fuel her stride. 🎵💪
Together, we can make a difference and keep Matt’s spirit alive. Go, Tara, go! 🎉👏 #WalkForMatt #SupportTara
Tomorrow, Saturday, November 16th, Tara Jennings will take on an inspiring 20-mile walk along the Downtown Clearwater Pinellas Trail to support the Matt LaPorte Music Scholarship Fund at St. Petersburg College.
This scholarship honors the memory of Matt LaPorte, a beloved member of our community who dedicated his life to his passion for music and teaching. The funds raised will provide opportunities for students to pursue their dreams in music performance and recording technology.
We invite you to join us along the trail to cheer Tara on as she walks for this incredible cause. Your encouragement and support can help make a meaningful difference for aspiring musicians in our community.
Let’s come together to celebrate music, community, and the power of giving back. See you on the trail!
569 days ago by Theresa McFarlandTara continues to train for the November 16th Pinellas Trail 20 Mile Walk. She is raising funds for the Matt LaPorte Music Scholarship Fund. To date, she has secured 7 donations for the fund.
Make a donation today and help provide a scholarship to a few music majors at St. Petersburg College. Thank you for your support!
We are so happy that Tara continues her training while thinking of supporting a worthy cause. The Matt LaPorte Music Scholarship will give a music student the opportunity to learn music and live their passion. Matt was full of passion and through his memory, we want St. Petersburg College students to "live their passion" as well.
Tara continues to train so that she would be fit as a fiddle for November 16th. Please make a gift to sponsor Tara's efforts and support the Matt LaPorte Music Scholarship today.
Tara Jennings will be walking along the Pinellas Trail on November 16th at Downtown Clearwater to raise funds in support of the Matt LaPorte Music Scholarship at St. Petersburg College. Why is she doing this? Tara has been a longtime supporter of causes in support of heath care and the betterment of our local community. While trying to decide which local charity she would support this year with her philanthropic efforts, Tara had a conversation with her husband who discussed his longtime friendship with Matt LaPorte. From that conversation Tara decided to support the Matt LaPorte Music Scholarship that was established in 2011. Periodically, Tara will share the progress of her training journey as she trains for the big day, November 16th.
You are welcome to make social media posts and cheer on Tara.
Donors
View All Donors
