Who is Thomas Tedesco?
Thomas Tedesco one of Southern California's leading Jazz Guitarist and, one of this country's most dynamic and resourceful improvising guitarists. Comfortable in a variety of musical settings, Tedesco can often be found with one of his ensembles in a concert setting performing his original compositions, playing rhythm in a swing band, standards in a night club, performing solo or, improvising with poets. Tedesco's performances are an equal measure of grace, wit, and musical adventure. Thomas has a full length entry in Scott Yanow's book "The Great Jazz Guitarist", Backbeat Books published 2013.
How Can I Find Out More About This Composer?
Tedesco is currently promoting two critical acclaimed CD: “Don't Ever Be Afraid To Be Ascarred ” on 9 WINDS label, and “Ocean ” on Clarion Jazz. Both CD's feature’s original compositions and arrangements along with internationally known jazz instrumentalists. Thomas is part of a continuum of jazz artists who have dedicated themselves to an evolving style of music that is uniquely “American”. While living in Venice, California, he found ample opportunities to hone his skills as a jazz guitarist working in a variety of jazz clubs, teahouses, art galleries and outdoor venues. At that time the Venice scene provided fertile ground for artistic expression, experimentation and growth. Also, he could often be found working concerts and jazz clubs in Southern California and abroad. In his expansive career Thomas has shared the bandstand with the best including: Bobby Bradford, Henry “The Skipper” Franklin, Garnette Brown, Ray Draper, Roberto Miranda, Horace Tapscott, Billy Higgens, Sherman Ferguson, Frank Morgan, to name but a few.
How did Thomas Achieve His Sucess?
Through the years, Thomas has kept one foot in academia, earning an Associate of Arts Degree in Music from Santa Monica City College, a Bachelor of Arts in Music Composition from California State University Dominguez Hills, and a Masters of Music in Jazz Studies from California State University Long Beach. Thomas is a teacher and performer committed to guiding his students to find their own understanding and creativity in music, using his vast experience and extensive knowledge of jazz, popular music and jazz guitar playing techniques. Thomas has taught in many public and private institutions from High Schools to College Level as well as his private jazz students. His book Improvisational Concept for the Jazz Guitar, published in 2002, displays a deep interest in the pedagogy of the instrument. Thomas is a member of “California Alliance For Jazz” and “The Jazz Education Network”.
Hear what the critics say:
“…Solid ensemble play with creative improvisation – lyrical ballads and up tempo romps give the program variety…the leader maintains a fluid approach with articulate pacing…lovely, and still fascinating to the listener…holding to the tradition while tearing off the edges with its unique tonal palette. Tedesco's ensemble provides an adventurous listen.”
LA Jazz Scene
"…Check out Tedesco's cool bop lines…Tedesco eschews flash for style a true jazz style.”
All About Jazz
“…Guitarist Thomas Tedesco belongs in the sphere of the “intimist” guitarist Jim Hall or Kenny Burrell…perfectly vibrant…instruments resound deliciously…good qualities of the composer Thomas Tedesco are undeniable.”
J@zz Hot Internet
“…Could easily be a Blue Note, Riverside catalogue item…check out Tedesco's sound…his pristine single line voicing rival that of Joe Pass, Pat Martino, Joe Diorio…from start to finish of this Granite solid 70 minutes of well conceived and played contemporary music…a very fine effort…7 stars.”
Michael Nastos Review