John Vitale began playing guitar at age 12, teaching himself, after 7 years of studying classical piano with his father Vito, a much celebrated professional classical pianist and instructor. He began performing in 1968 in nightclubs with bands and orchestras around the Chicago area, and became fluent in Rock, Blues, Pop, R&B, Jazz, Country, and other styles. After seeing Andres Segovia in 1971, he became absorbed by the Spanish Classical guitar. Studies at the Jack Cecchini studio, and an eventual performance degree from Roosevelt University under Pamela Kimmel offered him a well-rounded musical education. Ms. Kimmel directed him to attend master classes and John studied with Oscar Ghiglia and Manuel Lopez-Ramos.
John was the Musical Director for the world traveled Free Street Theater in 1978 and 1981, and performed in the Jeff nominated musical “I’m getting my Act together” in 1980(Chicago) and 1982 (Chicago and Los Angeles). The musical was featured on the Donahue Show (TV) and the entire cast was up for a Jeff award for ensemble. John studied very briefly with the great jazz guitarist Joe Diorio in Los Angeles, and began a successful teaching practice in West Hollywood, CA while performing and recording.
John Vitale
[email protected] Phone # 608-698-7840
John was the Musical Director for the world traveled Free Street Theater in 1978 and 1981, and performed in the Jeff nominated musical “I’m getting my Act together” in 1980(Chicago) and 1982 (Chicago and Los Angeles). The musical was featured on the Donahue Show (TV) and the entire cast was up for a Jeff award for ensemble. John studied very briefly with the great jazz guitarist Joe Diorio in Los Angeles, and began a successful teaching practice in West Hollywood, CA while performing and recording.
John Vitale
[email protected] Phone # 608-698-7840