Artist Biography

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As a versatile guitarist, Jason Riley’s professional experience includes recording, composing, teaching and performing in multiple styles. His formal degree in classical guitar and commercial music included extended study in American styles, especially the Jazz idiom and improvisation. As a recording artist, Jason has produced and released three solo CDs, Notes to Self (a compilation of original compositions) , Outtakes (original arrangements of traditional works) and Spirit of Things (traditional American spirituals). An equally successful and dedicated sideman, his playing has been featured extensively on many albums by other artists. Riley’s uniquely personal playing style, an improvisation-based approach utilizing “live” looping and tongue-in-cheek technical and technological effects, is demonstrated through his humble stage presence, acclaimed work with acoustic and electric instruments and heart-felt tributes to his many musical influences. His versatility of style, mood and character is seemingly unlimited: he can play soft and subtle, frantic and aggressive, he can swing, he can rock, he can play unaccompanied, with other guitarists or with symphony orchestra. His work on stage not only reflects his understanding of classical form and balance, but shows a highly original combination of this classical/rock/jazz background that very few guitarists can successfully execute in live performance. Jason has won competitions and reader’s polls in both the rock and country genres and has opened for and performed with national and international artists. He has also made numerous radio and television appearances. When not on tour, Jason serves as adjunct professor of guitar at Benedictine College in Atchison, KS and Missouri Western State College in St. Joseph, MO. He has also served as co-director at the Festival Chartres - an international guitar festival in Chartres, France. Jason lives with his wife, Jolie, daughter, Georgia and son, Benjamin in St. Joseph, Missouri. At-A-Glance ... "(Riley) is one of the most capable and highly-acclaimed artists on our roster. His versatility is unmatched, making him a unique joy to record and book. Its an honor to work with this true professional!" -InnerThump Records Artist Overview - Guitarist Jason Riley tours in support of his solo album projects. His current show offers original compositions along side a large repertoire of Classics, Jazz, Blues, Rock and Country. Performing electric, acoustic, solo or with a combo, Riley proves again and again why he is a highly respected and appreciated artist. Mr. Riley proudly endorses: Repertoire Sample "People Get Ready"
J.S. Bach Stevie Ray Vaughn Kenny Burrell "Sweet
Caroline" Led Zeppelin
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