Classical Jazz Guitarist: A Classical Guitarist’s Guide

Any classical guitarist (or rock, blues, country, etc.) new to the world of jazz needs to know a little bit about the great players in the genre. Learning any style of music (jazz, rock, blues, Brazilian, etc.) requires a lot of listening. Fortunately, today we can do as much listening to the most obscure styles as possible with our streaming technology. Therefore, anyone wanting to become more of a classical jazz guitarist will find listening to jazz guitar is just a click away.

A Brief History of Jazz Guitar

The history of jazz guitar is a rich and diverse journey that spans over a century. Jazz guitar has evolved through different styles and players, contributing to the development of the genre. Here is a brief overview of its history:

Early 20th Century

Emergence of Jazz Guitar: In the early 20th century, as jazz music began to gain popularity, the guitar started to find its place in the genre. At this time, the guitar was primarily used as a rhythm instrument in bands. It provided the chordal accompaniment to the horn players. Freddie Green, a member of the Count Basie Orchestra, became a pioneer of the “four-to-the-bar” rhythm guitar style. This was a defining element of swing music.

The 1930s The Birth of Solo Guitarists

As the swing era progressed, guitarists like Eddie Lang and Django Reinhardt emerged as prominent soloists. Eddie Lang, an American guitarist, became known for his collaborations with jazz legends such as Bix Beiderbecke and Joe Venuti. Django Reinhardt, a Belgian Romani guitarist, played a significant role in popularizing jazz guitar in Europe. They brought a unique blend of traditional Gypsy jazz and American swing to the genre.

The 1940s The Electric Guitar Revolution

The 1940s marked a significant change in jazz guitar with the advent of the electric guitar. Innovations like the Gibson ES-150 and Charlie Christian’s use of the electric guitar in Benny Goodman’s band opened up new possibilities for jazz guitarists. Charlie Christian is often considered one of the first electric guitar soloists and influenced many subsequent generations of jazz players.

The 1950s-1960s Bebop and Beyond

The post-war era saw the rise of bebop, a complex and virtuosic style of jazz. Guitarists like Barney Kessel, Tal Farlow, and Wes Montgomery made significant contributions to the genre during this period. Wes Montgomery, in particular, brought a fresh approach to jazz guitar by incorporating octaves and chordal work. He established himself as one of the most influential guitarists in jazz history.

The 1960s – Fusion and Beyond

In the 1960s, jazz fusion emerged, blending elements of jazz with rock, funk, and other genres. Guitarists like Joe Pass and Grant Green continued to develop the traditional jazz guitar style. Others like John McLaughlin, Larry Coryell, and Pat Metheny embraced fusion and brought jazz guitar into more experimental territories.

Late 20th Century to Present

In the late 20th century and into the present, jazz guitarists have continued to explore various styles, including post-bop, Latin jazz, smooth jazz, and contemporary jazz. Players like George Benson, John Scofield, and Kurt Rosenwinkel have made significant contributions to the genre and expanded the language of jazz guitar.

Today, jazz guitar remains a dynamic and ever-evolving aspect of the jazz tradition. Players incorporate a wide range of influences and techniques, while also paying homage to the rich history of the instrument and the genre.

The Listening List

George Benson – The Ultimate Collection

George Benson is an American jazz guitarist and vocalist whose musical versatility and virtuosity have earned him widespread acclaim and admiration. Born on March 22, 1943, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Benson began his musical journey at an early age, showing prodigious talent on the guitar. He first gained recognition in the jazz scene during the 1960s. He displayed his exceptional skill in the hard bop and soul jazz genres.

Over the years, Benson’s style evolved, and he embraced a more accessible sound. He blended elements of jazz, pop, and R&B, which helped him reach a broader audience. Renowned for his fluid and expressive guitar playing, Benson is equally celebrated for his smooth and soulful singing. His 1976 album “Breezin’” became a commercial success, earning multiple Grammy Awards. It established him as one of the preeminent jazz-pop artists. With an extensive discography and a career spanning over six decades, George Benson continues to be a beloved figure in the world of jazz and popular music. He inspires generations of musicians with his timeless contributions to the art form.

Kenny Burrell – Midnight Blue

Kenny Burrell is an esteemed American jazz guitarist and composer. He is renowned for his impeccable technique, exquisite phrasing, and deep musical sensibility. Born on July 31, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, Burrell developed a passion for music at an early age. He mastered the guitar while immersing himself in the rich jazz culture of his hometown. He rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming a pivotal figure in the hard bop and cool jazz movements. Burrell’s playing is characterized by its warm and bluesy tones, which have captivated audiences and fellow musicians alike. His exceptional work as a sideman, notably with artists like Dizzy Gillespie, John Coltrane, and Jimmy Smith, cemented his status as one of the most sought-after jazz guitarists of his time.

Beyond his contributions to the jazz canon, Kenny Burrell has also pursued a distinguished career in academia. He taught at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and contributed to the preservation and promotion of jazz education. Throughout his extensive career and discography, Kenny Burrell’s musical legacy endures. He inspires generations of guitarists and has left an indelible mark on the world of jazz.

Charlie Christian – The Essential Charlie Christian

Charlie Christian was an influential American jazz guitarist. He is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the electric guitar and a key figure in the development of bebop and modern jazz. Born on July 29, 1916, in Bonham, Texas, Christian’s short but impactful life left a lasting mark on the history of jazz guitar. He first gained recognition in the late 1930s as a member of the Benny Goodman Sextet. There, he showcased his innovative and groundbreaking use of the electric guitar in a jazz context. Christian’s fluid single-note lines, innovative phrasing, and melodic improvisations helped redefine the role of the guitar in jazz music. Further elevating it to a prominent solo instrument.

Tragically, Christian’s life and career were cut short when he passed away from tuberculosis at the age of 25 in 1942. However, his impact on jazz guitar and jazz as a whole cannot be overstated. His legacy lives on through his numerous recordings and the profound influence he had on subsequent generations of guitarists. He has solidified his place as one of the most important and innovative figures in the history of jazz.

Tal Farlow – The Complete Verve Sessions

Tal Farlow was a highly influential American jazz guitarist. He is celebrated for his exceptional technical prowess and unique approach to the instrument. Born on June 7, 1921, in Greensboro, North Carolina, Farlow began his musical journey as a self-taught guitarist before formally studying music theory and composition. He rose to prominence in the 1950s. He displayed lightning-fast single-note lines, innovative chord voicings, and impeccable sense of swing. Tal Farlow’s playing combined elements of bebop, cool jazz, and harmonically sophisticated arrangements. This made him one of the most distinctive and sought-after guitarists of his time. His remarkable skill led to collaborations with jazz luminaries like Charles Mingus and Red Norvo, as well as successful recordings as a leader.

After stepping back from the limelight in the 1960s, Farlow experienced a career resurgence in the 1970s and 1980s, further cementing his status as a jazz guitar icon. Renowned for his reclusive nature and humble demeanor, Tal Farlow’s legacy endures as an inspiration to countless guitarists. His recordings remain a treasure trove of jazz guitar brilliance. Tal Farlow passed away on July 25, 1998, but his musical contributions continue to resonate and influence jazz guitarists around the world.

Grant Green – Matador

Grant Green was an exceptional American jazz guitarist known for his distinctive sound, soulful playing. He had a prolific output during the hard bop and soul jazz eras. Born on June 6, 1935, in St. Louis, Missouri, Green started his career in the 1950s, influenced by bebop and blues. He quickly gained recognition for his ability to seamlessly blend complex bebop lines with a deep blues feel. This resulted in a style both sophisticated and accessible.

In the early 1960s, Green signed with Blue Note Records, where he recorded some of his most acclaimed albums. His work as a bandleader and sideman during this period showcased his exceptional talent. He became an in-demand session player for numerous artists, including Jimmy Smith and Lee Morgan.

Green’s use of single-note lines, melodic phrasing, and expressive bends made him a master of both ballads and up-tempo tunes. He had a gift for creating memorable solos that could evoke powerful emotions. His approach often emphasized groove and feel over technical flash.

Tragically, Grant Green’s passed away on January 31, 1979, at the age of 43. Despite his premature death, his legacy lives on through his extensive discography and the influence he had on subsequent generations of jazz guitarists. His recordings continue to be celebrated for their soulful and timeless qualities. This solidifies Grant Green as a revered figure in the history of jazz guitar.

Jim Hall – Jim Hall & Ron Carter: Alone Together

Jim Hall was a highly influential and innovative American jazz guitarist. He is widely regarded as one of the most significant figures in the evolution of jazz guitar. Born on December 4, 1930, in Buffalo, New York, Hall began his musical journey with the piano before discovering the guitar in his early teens. He developed a distinctive and lyrical style characterized by impeccable phrasing, harmonic sophistication, and a deep understanding of melody. Hall’s playing seamlessly integrated elements of bebop, cool jazz, and free jazz, making him a versatile and sought-after musician. He first gained recognition in the 1950s, performing with jazz legends like Jimmy Giuffre and Chico Hamilton. As a member of the groundbreaking Bill Evans Trio in the early 1960s, Hall solidified his reputation as a consummate accompanist and inventive soloist.

Throughout his career, he collaborated with numerous jazz greats, including Paul Desmond, Art Farmer, and Ron Carter, while also leading his own groups. Jim Hall’s contributions to jazz guitar, marked by his tastefulness, sensitivity, and originality, have left an indelible mark on the genre and continue to inspire guitarists worldwide. He passed away on December 10, 2013, leaving behind a vast and influential body of work that showcases his enduring legacy in the world of jazz.

Barney Kessel – Poll Winners Three

Barney Kessel was a highly accomplished and influential American jazz guitarist. He is celebrated for his virtuosic playing, innovative approach, and prolific career. Born on October 17, 1923, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Kessel’s musical journey began with the violin before transitioning to the guitar as a teenager. His exceptional skill quickly earned him recognition. It led to opportunities to perform with prominent big bands and artists like Benny Goodman and Artie Shaw in the 1940s. Kessel’s playing displayed his incredible technique, versatility, and ability to effortlessly traverse various styles, including bebop, swing, and cool jazz. He became one of the most sought-after studio musicians in Los Angeles during the 1950s and 1960s. He contributed to numerous recordings and film scores.

As a leader, Barney Kessel released a series of acclaimed albums that showcased his melodic ingenuity and improvisational prowess. His contributions to jazz guitar and the music industry as a whole are immeasurable. He remains an inspiration to generations of guitarists. Barney Kessel passed away on May 6, 2004, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the most respected and influential figures in the history of jazz guitar.

Pat Martino – East!

Pat Martino is an extraordinary American jazz guitarist known for his exceptional technical skill, innovative approach to improvisation, and remarkable musical journey. Born on August 25, 1944, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Martino displayed prodigious talent on the guitar from a young age. He rose to prominence in the 1960s, working alongside jazz icons like Jack McDuff and Chick Corea. Martino’s distinctive style blends elements of bebop, post-bop, and modal jazz. He is renowned for his impeccable phrasing, complex harmonic vocabulary, and lightning-fast runs.

In the late 1970s, he faced a personal and professional setback due to a brain aneurysm that caused memory loss, leading him to relearn the guitar from scratch. Martino’s incredible resilience and determination allowed him to make a remarkable comeback. He reclaimed his place as one of the most revered and influential jazz guitarists. His vast discography and passionate performances continue to captivate audiences and inspire guitarists around the world, cementing his status as a true jazz legend.

Pat Metheny –  Question and Answer

Pat Metheny is an exceptional American jazz guitarist, composer, and bandleader, known for his boundless creativity, technical mastery, and genre-defying musical explorations. Born on August 12, 1954, in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Metheny displayed prodigious talent from a young age and began playing guitar at the age of 13. He burst onto the jazz scene in the 1970s and quickly gained recognition for his innovative approach. He blended elements of jazz, rock, folk, and world music. Metheny’s signature sound, characterized by his use of a guitar synthesizer and innovative guitar techniques, established him as a pioneering figure in modern jazz.

Over the years, he has led various ensembles, including the Pat Metheny Group, and collaborated with an array of prominent musicians across diverse musical genres. Metheny’s prolific career has garnered him numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards, and his ability to consistently push the boundaries of jazz has made him one of the most celebrated and influential guitarists in contemporary music.

Wes Montgomery –  The Incredible Jazz Guitar

Wes Montgomery was a groundbreaking and influential American jazz guitarist. His distinctive style and virtuosity have left an indelible mark on the world of jazz. Born on March 6, 1923, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Montgomery came from a musical family and began playing guitar at an early age. He developed a unique technique known as “thumb picking,” where he used his thumb instead of a pick to play the guitar. With this technique, he created a warm, round tone with remarkable dexterity. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Montgomery gained widespread recognition with a series of critically acclaimed albums, such as “The Incredible Jazz Guitar of Wes Montgomery” and “Smokin’ at the Half Note.” His fluid single-note lines, lush chordal work, and soulful phrasing set a new standard for jazz guitarists.

Wes Montgomery’s popularity extended beyond the jazz community, reaching a broader audience with his accessible and melodic approach. Tragically, he passed away on June 15, 1968, at the age of 45. Despite his untimely death, his influence on jazz guitar continues to resonate. He is one of the most revered and celebrated figures in the history of the instrument.

Joe Pass – Joe Pass & Niels-Henning Ørsted-Pedrson: Chops

Joe Pass was a remarkable American jazz guitarist known for his exceptional skill, harmonic inventiveness, and prolific career. Born on January 13, 1929, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Pass overcame a troubled youth and substance abuse to become one of the most influential guitarists in jazz. He gained widespread recognition in the 1960s, particularly with his landmark album “Virtuoso,” showcasing his unparalleled solo guitar abilities. Pass was a master of chord melody. He used complex voicings and contrapuntal lines to create a rich and orchestral sound on the guitar. His playing combined elements of bebop, swing, and blues. He was equally adept at accompanying other musicians or taking center stage as a solo performer.

Throughout his career, Joe Pass collaborated with numerous jazz legends and recorded a vast discography. His remarkable talent and unique voice on the guitar made him a revered figure in the jazz world. His influence continues to inspire guitarists across genres to this day. Joe Pass passed away on May 23, 1994, leaving behind an enduring legacy as one of the greatest jazz guitarists of all time.

Jimmy Raney – A

Jimmy Raney was a highly influential and gifted American jazz guitarist. He was known for his melodic improvisations, sophisticated harmonic language, and distinctive voice on the instrument. Born on August 20, 1927, in Louisville, Kentucky, Raney began playing guitar at an early age and honed his skills in the vibrant jazz scene of Chicago. He first gained national attention in the late 1940s when he joined Woody Herman’s band. Raney’s fluid and lyrical playing style, combined with his innovative use of chord voicings, made him a sought-after sideman. He was an integral part of many legendary jazz groups, including those led by Stan Getz and Red Norvo. His work in small group settings and as a leader earned him widespread acclaim. He left an indelible mark on the cool jazz movement of the 1950s.

Jimmy Raney’s exceptional musicianship and contributions to jazz guitar continue to be revered and celebrated, solidifying his place as one of the great jazz guitarists of his era. He passed away on May 9, 1995. He left behind a rich legacy of recordings and inspired generations of guitarists with his unique approach to the instrument.

Django Reinhardt – Djangology 49

Django Reinhardt was a pioneering Belgian jazz guitarist and composer. He revolutionized the world of jazz guitar with his innovative playing style and virtuosic abilities. Born on January 23, 1910, in Liberchies, Belgium, Reinhardt suffered a tragic accident in his youth that resulted in severe burns to his left hand, leaving him with limited mobility in two fingers. Undeterred, he developed a groundbreaking technique that allowed him to play with astonishing speed and dexterity using just two fingers. Reinhardt co-founded the Quintette du Hot Club de France in the 1930s. The band featured his groundbreaking guitar work alongside the violin of Stéphane Grappelli. The group’s unique blend of Gypsy jazz and American swing made them immensely popular and influenced generations of musicians.

Reinhardt’s captivating solos, creative improvisations, and compositional prowess set new standards for jazz guitar. This makes him one of the most influential and admired guitarists in the history of the genre. Django Reinhardt’s legacy lives on through his timeless recordings and enduring impact on the world of jazz guitar. He passed away on May 16, 1953, but his contributions to music continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

Jonny Smith – Moonlight in Vermont

Jonny Smith is a highly acclaimed British jazz guitarist known for his exceptional talent, originality, and diverse musical explorations. Born in 1942 in Birmingham, England, Smith displayed a passion for music from an early age and started playing the guitar as a child. He emerged as a prominent figure in the British jazz scene during the 1960s. He gained recognition for his distinctive sound, which blended elements of bebop, cool jazz, and fusion.

Smith’s melodic and harmonically rich playing, coupled with his technical prowess, garnered him widespread admiration among both jazz enthusiasts and fellow musicians. He released several critically acclaimed albums as a bandleader, including “The Man With the Funny Little Horn” and “In the Beginning.” Each album showcased his remarkable improvisational skills and compositional ingenuity. Jonny Smith’s contributions to jazz guitar have earned him a devoted following. He remains an inspiration to aspiring guitarists for his innovative approach and significant impact on the jazz tradition.

Mike Stern – Standards (and other songs)

Mike Stern is a highly accomplished American jazz guitarist and composer. He is known for his exceptional versatility, electrifying performances, and distinctive fusion of jazz, rock, and blues influences. Born on January 10, 1953, in Boston, Massachusetts, Stern honed his guitar skills in the vibrant jazz scene of New York City. He gained international recognition in the 1980s through his work with jazz legends like Miles Davis, with whom he collaborated on the album “Man with the Horn.” Stern’s playing is characterized by his searing tone, fluid phrasing, and inventive use of effects. This made him a pioneering figure in the jazz-rock fusion genre.

Throughout his prolific career, he has released numerous critically acclaimed albums as a leader, including “Time in Place” and “Between the Lines.” His innovative and adventurous approach to improvisation has earned him numerous accolades and a dedicated fan base. Mike Stern’s contributions to jazz guitar continue to be celebrated. He remains a driving force in modern jazz, inspiring guitarists and musicians around the world with his masterful playing and genre-defying artistry.

Conclusion

The list above is only the beginning. Here are a few other names to check out: George Barnes, Billy Bauer, Lenny Breau, Jimmy Bruno, Charlie Byrd, Larry Coryell, Herb Ellis, Bill Frisell, Mundell Lowe, John McLaughlin, Howard Roberts, John Scofield, Martin Taylor, George Van Epps, Mark Whitfield, and Jack Wilkins. This could go on for pages and pages if you consider all the players from the past and present. A great book to check out would be The Great Jazz Guitarists: The Ultimate Guide. The book includes biographies and discographies as well.

Also, check out our other useful articles:

• Mastering the Art of How to Mic an Acoustic Guitar: A Comprehensive Guide
• A Concise (but not complete) List of Jazz Genres
• Exploring Ribbon Microphones: A Unique Approach to Recording Acoustic Guitar
• Best Pedal Guitar Tuners: A Comprehensive Comparison Guide

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Featured Photo by Steve Harvey on Unsplash