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Bruce Forman - Guitar
Bruce Forman's guitar style has been an important part of the international jazz scene for more than three decades. He has been featured as leader as well as sideman at many of the most prestigious festivals and concert venues throughout the world. His numerous recording and performing credits include the likes of Bobby Hutcherson, Ray Brown, Freddie Hubbard, Joe Henderson, Barney Kessel, Roger Kellaway, Richie Cole, and countless others. Known for swinging bop-style phrasing and inventive harmonizations, his ability to work in a variety of settings keeps him in constant demand. His guitar work is featured throughout Clint Eastwood's Academy Award winning film, Milion Dollar Baby.
His devotion to sharing knowledge-particularly with children-has been a constant throughout his career. Having taught since his late teens, he is keenly aware of the needs of developing musicians and is personally connected to all of his students, many of whom have moved on to successful careers as recording and performing artists. He has served as 'artist in residence' at numerous music workshops worldwide, has conducted seminars in conservatories and universities across four continents, is in residence at USC's Thornton School of Music and a longstanding member of the Monterey Jazz Festival Education Program.
In January 2000, he founded JazzMasters Workshop, a music-mentoring program that is free to student-age musicians. Beginning in 2001, JazzMasters achieved non-profit 501(c)(3) status and has operated more than 1,500 workshops throughout the nation. Through JazzMasters Workshops' auspices, many of the world's greatest touring and recording artists have had the opportunity to inspire and interact with the upcoming generation and to make a difference in the lives of children in their communities. In June 2003, the Jazz Journalist's Association recognized this work by bestowing an award for "Service To and Beyond Jazz." In support of the workshops, Bruce's western bebop band Cow Bop participated in the 'Route 66 Challenge', securing per-mile pledges for the organization.
See more at his website, bruceforman.com.
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