What’s Hot With Jazz Guitar: Tom Dempsey

by Doc Dosco

This week we feature New York guitarist Tom Dempsey.

Described as “the next young jazz guitarist that people will talk about,” Tom Dempsey's reputation on the New York jazz scene is receiving wide recognition. In recent years Tom has performed with some of the most renowned musicians in jazz including: Jim Hall, John Abercorombie, John Scofield, Tal Farlow, Buddy Montgomery, Ted Dunbar, Kenny Barron, Roy Haynes, Jack McDuff, Gerald Wilson, Muhal Richard Abrams, Dave Brubeck, and Richard Wyands. This young artist's reputation has extended beyond the borders of the United States. Since 1992, Tom has been performing as a leader and a sideman at some of the top jazz venues throughout the U.S., Europe and Japan. He has made numerous appearances on New York radio and television including performances on The Rosie O'Donnell Show and WQXR radio. His new CD entitled “Blues in the Slope” on Igmod Records is receiving critical acclaim. Tom is also an Artist Endorsee for Yamaha Guitars.

Along with his active performing career, Tom Dempsey's talent as a composer is also receiving noteworthy attention because of his distinctive sound and style. With over fifty compositions, Tom has often been called upon to provide ensembles with his original works.

In May 1996, Tom received his Masters Degree in Jazz/Commercial Music at Manhattan School of Music. At the same time he has been teaching in the Jazz Studies program at SUNY New Paltz, working as a Visiting Lecturer at Rutgers University, and teaching in the jazz department the National Guitar Workshop. His new book, Classic Jazz Styles for Guitar is available through Alfred Music.

Tom Dempsey is an exceptional young talent who is increasingly gaining wider acclaim. Emerging from the tradition established by Charlie Christian, Wes Montgomery, George Benson, and Jim Hall, Tom Dempsey is the next “young lion” audiences are waiting to hear.

Tom Dempsey's website:

http://www.tjdmusic.com/

Doc Dosco is a jazz guitarist, composer and audio consultant living in Los Angeles, CA. His website is located at http://www.docdosco.com, where you can find more information on the 'What's Hot with Jazz Guitar' columns, audio clips of Doc's playing, and many additional features. Doc now endorses Peerless Guitars and has the website Jazz Guitar Zone to help promote Peerless jazz guitars in the US. He also endorses the new Pignose Valve Tube Amps — great for jazz (and anything else!)

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