Pete Smyser
Pete Smyser is a virtuoso guitarist residing in Harleysville, PA (near Philadelphia). Jazz critics have likened Smyser to such legendary guitarists as Wes Montgomery, Joe Pass, Jim Hall, and Barney Kessel. Smyser is an endorser for American Archtop Guitars, is listed among greats in the book - “The Jazz Guitar, Its Evolution, Its Players and Personalities Since 1900” (Ashley Mark Publishing Co.), is on the jazz faculty at Moravian College (Bethlehem, PA) and was on the Artist Roster of the Pennsylvania Performing Arts on Tour (PennPAT) from 1997-2004.
Smyser has released 7 CDs as a leader. Pete has appeared on television and radio shows in addition to countless performances at festivals, clubs, universities, and churches.
Although his primary style is in the jazz idiom, performing with a 7-string archtop guitar, Pete is comfortable performing many musical genres including classical, jazz, blues, contemporary, folk and more. He studied both classical and jazz music.
Visit Pete’s website at www.smyser.com for sound samples and further information.
Smyser has released 7 CDs as a leader. Pete has appeared on television and radio shows in addition to countless performances at festivals, clubs, universities, and churches.
Although his primary style is in the jazz idiom, performing with a 7-string archtop guitar, Pete is comfortable performing many musical genres including classical, jazz, blues, contemporary, folk and more. He studied both classical and jazz music.
Visit Pete’s website at www.smyser.com for sound samples and further information.
Gear
American Archtop Guitars - American Legend (7-string)
Tags
“jazz guitar as witnessed during the best of the ‘30’s, ‘40’s and ‘50’s. ...Herb Ellis meets Barney
Kessel style… a hint of Jim Hall… No doubt we will be hearing more from Pete Smyser.” -Jazz Improv Magazine
“The mostly trio session (Opportunity Knocks) could stand up to an old Wes Montgomery disc. The swing is deep, the intentions old-school. Smyser's tunes go down easily. The set is highly traditional and worthy of wider recognition.” - The Philadelphia Inquirer
“The mostly trio session (Opportunity Knocks) could stand up to an old Wes Montgomery disc. The swing is deep, the intentions old-school. Smyser's tunes go down easily. The set is highly traditional and worthy of wider recognition.” - The Philadelphia Inquirer
Primary Instrument
Guitar
Willing to teach
Beginner to advanced
Credentials/Background
Pete Smyser has over 25 years of professional teaching experience. He currently teaches at Moravian College (Bethlehem, PA) and from his home studio in Harleysville, PA. Styles taught include jazz, classical, blues, contemporary, folk, rock, etc. Fundamentals of reading, proper technique, theory and ear training are emphasized.
Albums
Recordings: As Leader | As Sideperson
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