John Hart

John Hart stands out among modern mainstream guitarists for his fairly distinctive approach, having drawn widespread admiration through his accomplished leader sessions on Blue Note and Concord. He first took up the instrument at age 12, received his diploma from the University of Miami in 1983, and relocated to New York City the year after. His most important working relationships involved Terumasa Hino, Larry Goldings, and especially Jack McDuff, the last of whom he accompanied on tour and on record. Hart has also remained active as a music educator while appearing alongside leading jazz figures that include Jimmy Smith, Lou Donaldson, James Moody, Mike Mainieri, the Maria Schneider Orchestra, and Steve Allen, all in addition to directing his own ensembles.