PRESS RELEASE: March 2009. One of the world’s greatest jazz guitarists, Pat Martino, will follow Scott Henderson as the next legendary player to headline a series of masterclasses hosted by the Guitar Institute in London in association with Guitar Getaways Awaydays.

After being involved in the early rock scene in Philadelphia alongside stars like Bobby Rydell, Chubby Checker and Bobby Darin, Pat Martino was recruited by bandleader Lloyd Price to play on-stage with musicians such as Slide Hampton and Red Holloway. He made a move to Harlem and was signed as a leader for Prestige Records when he was just twenty, leading to the creation of his classic albums ‘Strings!’, ‘Desperado’, ‘El Hombre’ and ‘Baiyina (The Clear Evidence)’, one of jazz’s first successful ventures into psychedelia. After suffering a brain aneurysm causing him to lose all memory of guitar and his career, Pat made a remarkable recovery by studying his own historic recordings and returned to form on his instrument. With a distinctive, fat sound and gut-wrenching performances, he represents the best not just in jazz, but in music, embodying thoughtful energy and soul.

This exclusive event, to be held at the Bedford in Balham, London, on the evening of Wednesday April 8th, will feature an interactive clinic delivered by Guitar Institute teachers Phil Capone (guitar), Holger Skepeneit (piano), Terry Gregory (bass) and Darren Ashford (drums). This will be followed by the headline guitar masterclass with Pat.

This is a unique opportunity to hear legendary Pat Martino talk, play and demonstrate his craft which should not be missed. To book a place at the masterclass, contact Guitar Getaways on:

– awaydays@guitargetaways.com
– www.guitargetaways.com
– 01326 211945,

For further information on this and future ICMP events, contact the ICMP on:

– enquiries@icmp.co.uk
– www.icmp.co.uk
– 020 7328 0222