All about Pete

Pete grew up in an old colonial home near Valley Forge, PA. At a young age, he was introduced to choral music, the clarinet, and fell in love with the Philadelphia Orchestra, which at the time was conducted by the great Eugene Ormandy. He took up the guitar at age 12, and became a serious student of the instrument while in high school. Pete attended Penn State University where he earned a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, and studied classical guitar for fun. Upon graduation in 1982, Pete embarked on a career in hotels when he moved to Durango, Colorado.

In 1987 he decided to pursue his love of music and outdoor sports full time. He began teaching guitar to a few students while working at Katzin Music in Durango. He continued teaching there while he pursued his love of skiing, climbing, and whitewater as an instructor and guide. Along the way he performed as both a solo artist and with several Durango bands. Since 1995 Pete has earned his keep as a full-time musician, teaching private lessons and performing throughout the 4 Corners area. He continues to teach skiing for fun at Durango Mountain Resort, and is Level 3 certified in both Alpine and Telemark skiing. Pete is known for his unique and innovative teaching style, which is informed by his long-time practice of Yoga and meditation.

At his home studio in the beautiful Animas Valley, north of Durango, Pete writes, records, and teaches guitar to students from age 7 to 70. His patient teaching method is totally student -oriented, and is all about having a lot of fun while learning. He is well-versed in a variety of musical styles, so he keeps his students involved in the music they love.

Pete's music is founded on his study of classical guitar and his love of Rock, Blues, Folk, Jazz, Country, Bluegrass, and World Music. His early influences include Bach and The Beatles, but his exposure to progressive rock bands such as Yes, Genesis, and ELP ignited his passion for the guitar. Fusion artists such as Al DiMeola, Jean-Luc, Ponty, and The Mahavishnu Orchestra (with John McLaughlin) provided further early inspiration. At the same time, the great classic rock artists of the 60's, 70's and 80's provided a musical backdrop which strongly influences his playing to this day.

Currently Pete performs as a soloist, and as guitarist/vocalist for the rock band Freeplay, a group of Colorado musicians who reflect his varied musical tastes, playing Surf, Rock 'n Roll, Classic Rock, Country, Funk, Modern Rock and Originals. Freeplay fuses tight arrangements, crafted vocal harmonies, and exciting instrumental adventures that keep audiences up and dancing!

As a solo performer, Pete's laid-back style is great entertainment. His instrumental and vocal skills bring his songs to life, while his eclecticism leads listeners down many musical paths. During a typical performance he's likely to perform an original instrumental piece along with a tune by Johnny Cash or Prince. Whether he's playing an original song or a unique interpretation of a cover tune, the connection to his audience is always there!