Artist description Nick Kushner composes and performs short guitar instrumentals and songs that are a fusion of rock, jazz and classical music. Most of my recordings consist of 4 different tracks that make use of my electric, acoustic, classical and semi-hollow guitars. I occasionally throw in a bass guitar track,live drum track and vocals. The music is usually structured with well defined hooks, verses, choruses, bridges and solo sections. Most of the compositions utilize clean undistorted sounds that allow the listener to appreciate the subtle tones of different tracks.

Music Style A fusion of rock, jazz and classical.

Musical Influences Hendrix, Beatles, Led Zeppelin, George Benson, Miles Davis, Beethoven and Tchaikovsky

Similar Artists Peter Frampton, Jimmy Page

Artist History I studied classical piano from ages 7-10. At 11, I had to switch to the piano accordion since our new residence couldn't accomodate a piano. I continued taking lessons until the age of 15. At that time, I got interested in rock and I soon realized that Deep Purple didn't sound too good on the accordion. I picked up the bass guitar and acoustic guitar by ear and began experimenting with improvisation and compositions.In 1981, at the age of 20, I bought my Fender Strat and got addicted to the life-long quest of mastering the guitar. In 1987, I bought my 4 track machine and cranked out tons of recordings. From 1989-1990, I studied jazz guitar with a Berklee grad and protege of Pat Metheny named Dan Phillips. Since 1977, I have played in 14 different bands including Solid Mental Grace,(also on MP3.com) which still cranks out recordings today.

Group Members Nick Kushner is the sole member.

Instruments 1973 Fender strat with EMG pick-ups and Floyd Rose tremolo system played through a Digitech GSP Legend 21 guitar processor /pre-amp and 100W ADA power amp to 2 12 inch Marshall speakers in stereo. Takamine acoustic guitar, Sigma Martin classical guitar, Gibson ES-dot (335) and Fender Precision bass.

Albums "Survival of the Guitarist" (1985-1988). "All in the Music" (1992-1999)

Additional Info The album entitled "Survival of the Guitarist", refers to the struggle of the guitarist in the pre-electric days when the guitar was more of a support instrument. It's very ironic that the guitar would become the most dominant instrument of western contemporary music. Nowadays, "Survival of the Guitarist" refers to the struggles that guitarists face in steep competition from other guitarists. "All in the Music" refers to the fact that music without lyrics speaks for itself.

Location Framingham, MA - USA

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