Nate Najar
Nate Najar is one of only few guitarists who play jazz on the classical guitar. Many guitar players emulate horn players with blistering single note runs, but Nate prefers the more orchestral approach afforded by the classical guitar. Contrapuntal lines, lush harmony, and a full swinging sound have come to be associated with his guitar work. Swinging jazz sounds, blues, and Brazilian styles are all at home under Nate's hands. Rick Anderson of the All Music Guide says it best:
"one of the most consistently interesting and enjoyable young guitarists on the jazz scene.... Highly recommended."
Nate has performed with such notable jazz artists as Clark Terry, Ken Peplowski, Ray Kennedy, Gene Bertoncini, Harry Allen and many others. He studied for many years with the great Washington DC guitar teacher Frank Mullen, who helped develop his orchestral approach to guitar playing.
In December of 2006, Nate featured an all star septet to perform his adaptation of the great Ellington-Strayhorn Nutcracker. The show has since become a holiday tradition. Nate has also been featured at jazz clubs, festivals and concert appearances throughout the country. A personal and professional achievement, Nate has performed numerous times with the Joe Byrd Trio to pay tribute to the late Charlie Byrd, one of Nate’s biggest influences.
Nate’s latest cd recording is called “Live At The Side Door” and features John Lamb on bass and Chuck Redd on drums. The album was recorded at the Palladium Theatre’s popular “Side Door Jazz” concert series in St. Petersburg, Fl where Najar resides. Other recent releases include “Christmas with the Nate Najar Trio” and “The Nate Najar Trio- I’m All Smiles”.
© 2008 Nate Najar