Learn Jazz Guitar

Hi Robert loved the 2 pickup guitar and also loved the hot licks u put down . Would love to have one in the sun burst with 2 pickups , go scratch one up so u can send me one . Find me a spare copy of the jazz book with the 16 guitars that the students got . Loved the demo music and the lead with the overdrive was fabulous .Maybe someday I will be able to get a guitar from u but times are tuff .Well send me an email soon .God Bless old Friend, Claude (THE COP)

I first met Robert Conti in 1986 when he performed at a regional Jazz Festival being held in a large hotel. While perusing the wide variety of great musicians performing in various meeting rooms scattered throughout the hotel, I was suddenly stunned by the absolutely brilliant improvisation coming from his guitar! I stayed for his entire set and made it a point to meet him. The next time we met in 1989, he had relocated to California. Over the years I have followed his continued growth as a musician - and his acquisition and swift mastery of computer skills, as I was instrumental in introducing him to computers in the early days of the PC. I also watched with great interest as Bob created and developed the eight string guitar that became his signature model built and distributed by a major company.   Robert Conti is a truly amazing musician and human being whose standards far exceed excellence. His ability places him at the top level of the world

Robert, Just a quick one to tell you that I truly enjoyed playing with you last Sat. at the King's Fish Market. You should have steped in earlier. Anyway you made it a gas, hope to see you sooner than later.

Be Happy
Terry Profitt
Drummer
Union Blues Band

I've only had the pleasure of hearing Bob play once but was truly amazed. I am happy to say that I will now be studying with him and I am very much loking forward to my first lesson in one week, at which point I'm sure I will have much more to say!

I have known Bob since about 1969. I had never had a real appreciation of jazz music but then again, I had never heard a Jazz Musician that sounded and could play like Robert Conti. I am in awe of his talent but, I am also happy to say he is a friend of both my husband and me for more than 25 yrs. I hope we can enjoy him live in Jacksonville again really soon.

Thanks,
Jane -&- Bunky Fagan
Jacksonville, FL

Hey bob, I,ve just spent a few hours cheking your site out.  It looks like you,ve pulled out all the stops as usual!I got a kick out of seeing the photos of you breaking my guitar in at NAMM.Your playing and teaching has a huge influence and is inspiring me to become a better a MUSICIAN.The instructoinal material is going to be a big help,and i'm impationatly waiting for up and coming releases! Thanks much for everything you've done.

JM

Bob, To quote a famous commercial "I love Ya Man". Seeing those pics from the 70's really brought back some memories. Those were wild times. You in your reclining chair looking like a cast member of "The Sopranos'" ripping off notes etc with your paper thin pick (I remember thinking "This is all wrong" but its happening). The nightly craziness, endless stream of players of all abilities, the dinner/pizza runs and numerous embarassing/stomach churning opportunites to display my lack of ablility. "Hey (fill in a name) come in here and here this kid play" Where upon I proceed to frantically chop my way through Satin Doll or some other standard. It was an experience I've never forgotten. I was then and still am in awe of your musical ability/talent and while I will never play with the same musical or technical ability, you did leave me with a greater love and appreciation for Jazz. But most important, when I left your studio in 79' I left with the sound and tone in my heart, ears and...

Ken Richardson the Afro American guitarist, who met you at the NAMM convention in LA wants to know will you be performing at the Frankfurt Germany International Show the week of the 11th of April. He loves your playing as he commented to me. He will be performing at that international show.

Peace

Thanks for your (fairly!) recent fax and I'm sorry I missed you at the NAMM show...couldn't find you. Never mind, I'm off to the German show tomorrow and will be ordering a CD or two when I'm back.  If you ever need a bass player!

Dear Bob,
Johnny Janzen gave me you address. I haven't talked to you since your session at his place a couple of years ago, but I still remember it completly.  Very good web site.
Hope to see you at Johnny's again some time.

In His Love,
Marshall Kyle

Hi Mr. Conti,

I recieved a blonde, Robt Conti, Aria Pro II for college graduation in 1981 (Emory U).

I've toted my guitar around and played it probably 5 days a week since then. Mostly, I play for children's groups now. I've played about a half dozen times at the Boston Children's Museum. I've run programs for preschools. As an advisor to Tricity Headstart, I incorporate about a half hour of music into my annual Dental visits.

I always wondered about the name on my beautiful guitar. Now I know.

Best wishes to you, Bob.

Sincerely,

David Leader, DMD
Lynnfield, Ma.

My wife and I enjoyed your music at Brothers West in last night. Hope to see you soon there again.

I can only recommend Bob to serious students, as his technique and approach will best serve those who wish to improve. one lesson blew my mind wide open and i hope to pursue further studies in the near future.

I had the pleasure of first hearing Bob Conti's music due to good luck. I was staying at the Irvine Marriot for a week and as I entered the lobby, I was impressed by what I thought had to be piped-in radio music. Seeing Mr. Conti performing in the beautiful lobby, surounded by dozens of people was quite a sight. I watched him in awe and it didn't hit me for a full hour that this virtuoso was playing an eight string guitar. After listening to Mr. Conti during that week I was not only impressed with his ability but also happier than whan I had come in. What impressed me the most, however, is that this jazz legend could see my interest and initiated a conversation on playing and was willing to discuss all styles of music. He treated other players the same way and seemed genuinely interested in our levels of playing. Bob, I love the copy of Comin' On Strong! that you gave me and I listen to it frequently. You are a talent and a gentleman.

Internet will allow for sure to know everything on earth, including incredible musicians, guitarrist, educators and inventors as Mr. Robert Conti.

To visit this Web Site has been an incredible experience. Also, a matter of joy because I have seen Mr. Jim Frejek on the colaborators list, my only formal jazz guitar teacher at Berklee College, who plays an incredible seven string stuff. We hope to have Mr. Conti Jazz Guitar Clinic one day here in Caracas, Venezuela. People like Tuck Andres and Vinny Valentino have been around lately.

Meanwhile you guys have for sure that I will recomend this Web Site to my friends, jazz fans and students. God bless you all!

Been a long time, dude....glad you're still rippin'! I'm still gigging every weekend, too. Lost track of Grissom..talk to you later. You still diggin' the chocolate frosted donut?

Hey Bob,
Its great to hear that an incredible talent such as yourself is finally getting the recognition so well deserved. I learned so much from you in the few lessons I had with you in Jacksonville Florida. Oh the countless hours trying to comp thru Green Dolphin Street and Cherokee. If I ever get to LA I will definately find a way to come experience the madness live.

Take it light Bob
Bryan

You are a great player my friend. Keep soul searching -&- doin what you do best. My pleasure to listen to you
All the best
Irish Alan

It seems like you've been everywhere but in New England. It's all good though. I been listening to you for a while. Your processing dude Mike told me to come sign the guestbook so i figured i would. You're really inspiring to me as an artist. I'm gonna go get your books later on this week. I figure if they're anything like the lick-of-the-months then I'll be well off.

Hello,Robert Conti

I am very surprised to hear a jazz guitar virtuoso like you. Your playing,improvising and speed sounds so modern and so clean. Your playing makes me happy.
Greetings from Wolfgang, Vienna, Austria.

Greetings from out of the past. Sure was surprised to find you online, Bob, and very pleased. I've never forgotten your hard work trying to improve my technique. I wish I could say the same for a lot of the stuff you taught me. Hope we can chat sometime.

Arland Woodham

Bob,

Where is the 2000 photos with EMG pickups. At the NAMM show when you played we had another endorsee Zakk Wylde still signing photos when you set-up to play. His fans were would not leave. Enter Bob and as he started to play Zakk said who is that old man. I mention he was Bob Conti and would be playing music while you signed autographs. Zakk said " Man he can really kick ass on that guitar, he should have a record deal soon" At the end of the Zakk's signing I told him Bob has made records for years and was really one of our main artist at the NAMM show. What is he better than me , No Zakk just very different than you.

Zakk purchased a Bob Conti CD and aid matbe a could learn a lick or two. Hey he pretty cool for an old guy or you mean like.

Musically Yours,

Jack R. Nau
EMG,Inc.
National Marketing Director

Dear Robert:

About eight years ago, I discovered you during one of your evening performances at the Irvine Marriott Hotel in Newport Beach. As a jazz guitarist myself, I simply could not believe what I witnessed at the occasion. At the intermission, you had the deference to make yourself available to me and over a scotch or two, we conversed for a while. I know this happened years ago, but for me, these circumstances will remain as an extraordinary, unforgettable experience for the rest of my
life.

At a much earlier time, one night, during the summer of 1974, I shook hands for the first time with my beloved idol, absolute mentor and full source of musical inspiration, the late Joe Pass. That occurred at Donte's, a jazz spot in North Hollywood which today is no longer in existence. That one was,too, a fascinating, memorable as well as unique event whereby I also had the privilege to talk in length with the Maestro.

Hey Robert!
Thanks for the "Titanic" music tonight @ Capriccio's! I always appreciate your "Gift from God" You are a blessing to many people, myself -&- Dina included. Hope you're around for a long time to come!

Mr. Conti,
Saw your brief playing at the Namm, thought God came down to play jazz guitar! Try searching for your material, found none until now!

Great site. I'm a friend of Sal's (he and I went to school together) and I meet you in Jacksonville. Glad to see that everything is going well for you. Enjoyed your music.

Jim Cox

We enjoyed the dinner, service and of course your music last night at Cappricio in Mission Viejo. Thanks for sharing you talent with us.

Tony

Great site! You are one of the best. Keep going. The world needs more beautiful music.

+ENERGY Music
Atlanta GA

It's now 2000 and I have moved from Jax FL to Atlanta GA. I still love listening to Conti play after all these years and turning other players onto his music. Especially the nose in the air wanna be stars.  His playing puts them in their place every time. Miss you and hope to see you again sometime. If you are ever in Atlanta,look me up please-and email me when there is time.

All the best
JIM

Hey Bob,

Just thought I'd sign your guestbook. Jim LaDiana let me hear one of your CD's. Man! Your playing just kicks me in the ASS!! It's like authentic East Coast, "Balls to the Wall" Jazz with a great feel on STERIODS! Excellent chord melody and blazing single note lines! YOU DA MAN!!! You're the Michael Jordan of Jazz Guitar!
Thanks for letting me do some of your art work on your ads!

Willie Makiling

Hi Mr Conti,
Where the heck have you been hiding? I have to say that prior to having renewed my subscription to Just Jazz Guitar magazine, I never heard of you. Whenever I logged on to your website and watched and heard you play, I was stunned. Just when you think, who could ever test the originallity of the great Pat Martino, you come along. I cannot wait to order your CD'S and instructional material. If a tiny bit of your musical abilities can be incorporated into my playing, I will improve by light years. Here's hoping.

Your newest fan,
Bob Potvin

Just started getting Just Jazz Guitar where I found your lick of month article. I really enjoyed it and hope to benifit from it.

BOB CONTI !!!!!!!!!!!!
As always .....Class act ... fabulous .... The one and only !!! You deserve all the success and more...

Miss C,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

I would like to attend the clinic. All the best

Bob, my father and I took lessons from you in Jacksonville in the late 60's early 70's. I still have the Guild archtop my Dad bought from you. I wish I still had the Gibson stereo amp you sold us! I've been playing professionally for 20 years now, and I owe a great deal to your insight and inspirattion.

GOOD JOB MIKE!!! YOU DID A GOOD JOB ON YOUR WEB SITE AND GOOD JOB DADDY-O

LOVE
CHAR CHAR

Great music, just learing to access music on my computer, great intro.

Just about the time I become frustrated trying to market myself in a guitar based trio or as a solo guitarist, someone comes along and blows a needed breeze in my sails, re-instills my desire to perform real jazz. Your playing along with Lenny's and Jimmy Bruno's keep me going. Look forward to seeing you live.

best regards,
Mike McKinley
Jazz Guitarist

To My Dear Friend and Fantastic Jazz Cat, Robert Conti-
I was more than honored to send you one of my Cd's as I admire your playing very much. My only wish is to meet you one day. You stay on the melody and can play as fast as I can or could! You should be very proud as I have heard about you through so many Jacksonville musicians and musicians from all over the world. Your style is the kind that has meaning and you play with so much passion. Please come by when you are in Jacksonville. Lou Mecca is coming to see me,Jackie King -&- Willie Nelson too. I really do look forward to their vist. Thank you for everthing Robert. You are one of the finest out there in my opinion,

Hank "Sugarfoot" Garland/ Legend Guitarist

I HAVE BEEN LISTING TO YOUR MUSIC AND IT IS GREAT MUSIC! I PUT HANK GARLAND CD SET TOGETHER, AND THAT IS A LONG TIME TO PUT ALL OF THAT RIGHT. I HOPE YOU ENJOY OURS CD COLLECTION SET! THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

Bob..I have lots of friends, but only one who is truly a legend...YOU! Reviewing your website made me long for the old days in Newport Beach and Irvine...how I miss the pleasure of your music and company, it's true, you never know how good you've got it 'till you go away! Much continued and over due success. Give me a call, I'd love to hear your voice, and God knows I can always use your advice.

Tom

p.s. Ashley and Caitlin ask about you all the time.

Robert,
Thanks for providing us this website. It's an honor to be the first to sign this guestbook for the new Millenium. Your music will live on for another...

A fan.

I was told by someone (don't remember who) to go and see you at a hotel in Irvine (Marriott? Hyatt?) I got there late and your equipment was sitting there unattended (an eight stringed telecaster?!?!?). I awaited your return. When you got back. You started to pack up your gear. I went up to see what days you where playing there and mentioned that I had come to see you play. You immediately said, Oh, you came here to see me, in that case Then you unpacked and played a whole additional set. Wow!! It was great! I felt like you were playing for me, I guess you were kind of. It was truly an honor, seeing such greatness so up close and personal. Having been a guitarist for nearly 40 years myself, I am not always easily impressed but, you turned my head so hard that day I almost broke my neck. I couldn't help but wonder why you were not a household name, especially amongst the likes of my circle of friends who like to know who the greats are.

Bob is one of the best kept secrets in the music business.I've had the opportunity to woodshed with him re: guitar chord melody arranging and it advanced my playing and understanding by light years...and I've been playing in this style for 40 years. Bob is truly touched by the muse and those of you who know only of his technical prowess know only half the story. He can re-harmonize an old standard just as quickly and it's always musically correct. We are fortunate that he is secure enough and generous enough to share his gift for the asking. If you're a serious guitar player, don't miss his upcoming book called "The Formula" I certainly won't.

Wow........I've been a rock guitarist for 22 years, starting to learn some jazz guitar, and the video clips from the NAMM show blew me away. We're talking SERIOUS inspiration here. I'll be back for more when my head stops spinning.....

Jim M

Hello to all jazz guitar fanatics in the Toronto Canada area. W e have got to somehow get the magic fingers of Mr. Conti up here to blow a few minds. If there are any guitar stores willing to hold a clinic or perhaps the TOP of the Senator club could get him up for a weekend session that would be absolutely fantastic. Robert was kind enough to email me back with some guitar info which I thought was very nice of him. If you haven't picked up his cds, do so, sit back and be amazed
VIVA LAA CONTI!!!!!!!!!

Hi, Bob,

sure miss not having you in the booth next to us so I can enjoy your music several times a day. Be sure to make a note on your web page when your new CD is ready. I've marked your site on my favorite places.

Barb Ferree

Robert,

Saw you again at the NAMM show. I get to go most every year and really enjoy seeing some of the players in various styles. This year you were even better than last year which was also very inspiring. Your articles in Just Jazz Guitar are really well written and inspiring. Keep it up!

Thanks,

Frank

Hey Bob,

It was good to hear you at the show a couple weeks ago. I recieved my Source Code 2 book a couple days ago,and it's got me inspired once again to practice.I had broken my left hand and three of the knuckles last year and it had slowed me down considerably.The Etudes are definately good therapy.I've been keeping about four of the Etudes in pretty good shape.I'm getting the others back to speed and I think it is amazing what it's doing for my hand(s).Thanks for the
inspiration and all you have done for me as a teacher.I hope to hear your music and get to rap with you in person soon!

John

I saw and heard Mr. Conti for the first time one evening during the the summer of 1990, thereabouts, when he used to perform back at the Newport Beach Marriott Hotel Lounge...In my perception, any guitar playing executed at a higher level than that exhibited by Robert Conti's virtuosism is just unfathomable. In my book he is, without argument or doubt, the ultimate guitar genius, a musical Legend that already stands above and beyond all Leyends of his instrument. As a lifetime fervent jazz lover, I have been privileged to see, hear and also exchange a handshake or two with both Joe Pass and Robert Conti. Imagine that!. If I go to heaven when I die, I wish you take me seriously if I solemnly promise in here that there will be one whole lot of telling I am going to be doing to all the music enthusiasts up there, particularly those who play stringed intruments!!!.

This is some of the finest jazz music I have heard! We have artists in RI that are extremely talented.... They should /or maybe are listening to you. This music is my passion, having been a musician at one time. All I can say is keep producing and Thanks

I have enjoyed listening to your music very much. Thanks for sharing your great talent with us. I hope to collect most of your cd stuff.......

Joe

Hi , I just listening to your mp3 music and I just wanted to say it was very good and to tell you to keep up the good guitar playing .

Bill Elliott

Great to see someone helping interested Jazz guitarests. Thanks from us all 73 de Tom

Dear Robert,

I visited your page a few times and it is a beautiful site. I play a Gibson ES-175 in two bands and I would like to see the lick of the month but I can,t find it.
You are one of the finest players I ever heard and I would like to learn a lot from you. I am an average player (amateur)and I would like to have some advise.
I like to play chords in the improvisations but I have a problem with this. I hope to hear from you soon.

Greetings,

Tony, Zoetermeer/Holland

To Guestbook Readers:

I studied and took private lessons in jazz guitar with Robert Conti in Jacksonville, Florida. I went from a medicore player with a slight jazz background and a few "cowboy chords" in my hand...to a player who could play whole, impressive songs. Jazz standards, the real music. Frontwards, backwards, he could teach you the songs both ways. Joe Pass said one time that Robert Conti was the "fastest guitarist alive". I believe Joe. There is a genius alive behind that guitar, in that man. In those fingers. If you are a dedicated jazz player, you need to check out Conti's lessons. You will go somewhere with your abilities. Conti taught me that once you have the foundation...the chords...THEN, the chops can come...so, be patient with the chops...sharpen the axe of your fingers with some of Conti's "String Fever", when you're ready...if you're gonna cook, you gotta stay in the oven for a while, so, you gotta practice, or you aren't gonna get a thing.

I am eagerly awaiting the chord melody studies that i ordered....after seeing your section in JUST JAZZ GUITAR MAGAZINE...exellent just one thing though,could there be more information about where to use the licks,i know you gave an indication ie;-this could be used over a 5-1 progression. could there be more nformation about possible substitutions e.t.c many thanks for your time and patience.

derek

I first met Bob Conti when I worked at a music store in Jacksonville, FL. Bob has a personality that is bigger than life and a very critical ear. But mostly Bob is a great musician and a good person (don't tell him I said that!). I guess my favorite story about Bob was his business card. It said, "For God so loved the Guitar, He created Bob Conti". A lot of people thought that was over the top - until they heard Bob play.

Keep playing Bob!

Dear Bob,

I've always loved listening to your playing and your interpertation of the music. From one artist to another your creativity is in a class of its own. I wish you great success on Conti's Corner.

Warm Regards,
Your Friend,
Tony Annecharico

Dear Mr Conti,

Many thanks for the postal lesson i recieved today 8th june 2001,having lots of fun with it already.It was a real treat to hear you talking directly to me and answering the questions that i e-mailed you.. this is the first time that i have taken lessons by post,i am glad i took the plunge...looking forward to the next one already....
stay safe,keep well,untill next time

best wishes
Derek

Saw Robert Conti perform at 2001 NAAM and was totally blown away. Am a classical player interested in learning jazz. Especially interested in the 8-string guitar and its possibilities in playing not only jazz, but classical pieces written for piano, etc. Would appreciate any info you have on accoustic nylon 8-string guitars available that have built-in mics or pick-ups and or how to get my hands on an electric 8-string that is conducive to fingerstyle playing (have never used a pick).

Thanks!

Ephran

Come check out Koll Guitar Company home of the manufacturer of a special custom Robert Conti Guitar.

Koll Guitar Company

I am interested in chord melody. I am specifically looking for an arrangment of "Nature Boy," I would appreciate any help you can give me.

Tony

In 1979 I bought an Aria Pro II "Robert Conti" model guitar, a beautiful and exact copy of a Gibson L5, in Caldwell, New Jersey. I've been playing it ever since, and have used it in blues bands, rock and roll bands, and now in a country band. I've always been curious about the person for whom the guitar was named, and now I know.

Thanks to technology, those who are geographically far from California, are abble to see Mr. Conti, burning at the NAMM Convention. This is a truly inspiring experience. I invite you all to visit Bob's Video Showcase
Thanks

I'm Don Casper's brother. The one who first started Don playing the guitar. I like your web site. Your music too.

Bob. Debi and I have been very busy the last couple of weeks. Sorry we haven't been down to see you at Brothers West. Please write me and let me know when you will be in the neighborhood. Love to have you stop by.

Tony

Hi,
Realy like your Lessons in Just Jazz.Would like to see more infor and Licks on Django Reinhardt and were can a player fine a Guitar like DR played that don't cost a arm and a leg?
LATER!

I signed up for two lessons in rythym guitar. I am interested in blues- jazz crossover rythym guitar and hope that your lessons will teach me.

Practice practice practice. The puzzle is starting to come together. Very nice not to be on a schedule. I am now able to play and learn from a pro at any time I want. Weekly lessons can be very constraining. Thanks for creating a professional service at a great price.

J.Pineda

Bob, you might remember me from Jacksonville,Fl. I was one of your student's in the late sixties. One of my biggest regrets in Life was not continuing guitar study under your direction. But I still play at it though, and am considering accomplishing it in the future. Congratulations on your apparent great success over the years. I
think the last time I saw you was at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival. Here's to continued success and a good life.

Henry Bechem
Jacksonville Beach, Fl.

hi bob
just letting you know that my thoughts and prayers are with the USA at this sad time. sorry it has been so long since i last contacted you,i am still busy with those chord arrangements you sent,i really like the Jobim one,superb.i hope you are well and taking it easy,just thought i would touch base with you and let you know that i am still working with those pieces and making steady progress,i have also orderd the SOURCE BOOK 1 looking forward to that, stay well keep up the excellent work.

Derek

None yet but good luck and ill look for you

Just got here. I am checking your website/homepage now.

Toby Tobias

Oh my God!!!

You are a sick man Bob, I have just finished watching your video clips. You play so many amazing lines that would have made Tal Farlow slip out the back door and hide!!ha! You must listen to Charlie Parker all day, do you? Recently I have been listening to Parker non-stop. I guess it's Conti time for the next 6 months for me.
Seriously my friend, I have just ordered your postal lessons x3. I can't wait to get them. If you ever start the Bob Conti Guitar Church, I'm your man. Anyway, you are an inspiration with chops for days. All the best friend,

P.S. I have some crazy improvisations on acidplanet.com.
if your interested in listening some time, just type my name in the
search tab....
Alan Traynor
(From Ireland, now living in Boston)

Hey man I am good friends with Mark Stefani and he can't say enough good things about you as a player as well as a person (not even counting the Italian factor which is always a plus.) I just ordered a couple of your chord melody books along with the cd offer.I aspire to go from a lousy player to a mediocre one! Sorry I missed the seminar when you were in S.F.but Mark gave me a call at midnight the previous eve and I wasn't able to make it. I hope to hear you if you are back in San Francisco.Any gig potentials up here for you? I look forward to hearing you play on cd and hopefully in person.

Lou Curri

Bob, hope all is well!. I spoke with Pat Martino today. He asked about you and sends all his love. Take care,

Reggie...

Your a man, Robert! I've never heard anyone quite like you. Where have you been?

Best Wishes,
Brian

Bob - I just caught you at the NAMM show....WOW ! I've been in this buisness for nearly 30 yrs on and off (as a piano player) and can't believe I haven't ran into you. So far, you're the best kept "secret" in the industry ! I sincerely hope that changes for you very soon. Not to mention yourself, you owe it to the entire jazz world ! Much success and God bless.  I'm gonna try to get down to South County and catch you before you "get away". No matter, I'll be sending students your way from now on. Let me know how the "Guest Artist" thing works. I'd love to have you out to my school. 

Dear Mr. Conti-

I am interested in talking with you about a few things...mainly about life as a professional jazz guitarist, and how you continue to grow and improve as an artist. I dn't see any links to your personal contact information, so...I am hoping that you will find me via this message. I have heard wonderful things about you, and would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you directly. Keep up the great work, and let's chat soon.

Ryan Taylor
WWW.RYANTAYLORJAZZ.COM

Hello Mr. Conti SIR!!!

We spoke a couple days ago about my movie "Godz of the Guitar." I tried to hit the e-mail button on your home page, but nothing happened. So, I'm communicating this way. Currently, I have about 20 signed letters of intent, by the Hellecasters, Steve Morse, Albert Lee, Frank Gambale, Jay Graydon, Elliott Randall, Redd olkaert, Seymour Duncan, Dean Markley strings, Davie ALlan and the Arrows, Adrian Legg's manager, and I'm sure I'm forgetting someone. Oh, and Herb ellis I guess is retiring. So, since I'm trying to show virtuosity in the movie, plus different styles of playing, and different guitars...and you play inimitably, and with an eight string, it would be an honor if you were in the film. All you have to do for me is write a note and mail it to:
Jon Michaels,
3501 Clarington Avenue,
LA CA 90034
(310)-204-2410 is my number if you have a question.

I enjoyed hearing you a year ago at NAMM (Anaheim) (2001)...The days of wine -&- roses was great! Sorry I didn't catch you this year. Just checking out your site. Looks like a lot of good stuff.

regards,
Ray

ok, this is a crazy man.. geez! Just listened to some of the video clips.. what technique, what melodic inventiveness. Great

Hi Bob!

Got your book and CD's that you sent me. The article was very interesting. I see you put a picture of Amadei in your article. All I do these days is play with a bunch of 12 and 13 year old kids here at Pitman Middle School. Freddy just retired, but I still have 5 more years. I hope to sit down sometime soon and write you a letter. Write back to me here at school. Save me from this insanity!! Send it to jscarpa@pitman.k12.nj.us Thanks. Good hearing from you.

Jim

Thanks for the 4 1/2 years of great lessons in Florida (and for introducing me to the playing of Pat Martino and Johnny Smith). I never would have learned so much without your help. I still wonder to this day how you play the way you do with such ease. Your playing style is unique...NO ONE sounds like you...and that is
remarkable considering the number of guitarists playing today. Your chord melody arrangements are exquisite. The guitar teacher I had at Berklee College of Music in Boston a while back was visibly shaken when I played one of your arrangements for him...he was *that* blown away. (I should have told him it was one of my arrangements...ha, ha) I soon discovered I was not going to learn much guitar there after learning from you and to focus on other areas. I hope to return full time to the guitar playing world (when I have more time) after I complete my degree...when ever that is! Thanks again! (Please videotape a "live" performance!)  

Carl  8)

Robert, this is great! I'll pull it up tomorrow or Friday when I have the time to explore it. Never would have guessed you were on here! what a great surprise! Maybe I could learn something! Great hearing from you again. Will check this out later this week.

BC

After reading your interview in JJG, I decided to tackle your transcription of "The shadow of your smile" What a great introduction to your appraoch. I am throughly enjoying it. Would love to hear you play some time in Philadelphia or Harrisburg, Pa. You ever come home for a visit?

I live in Philadelphia, but commute and spend much time in NYC. I was wondering if you have any performances up comming in either of these two cities. I had studied under years ago under a local player and instructor Thornell Schwartz who had instructed many players in Phila., but never became well known him self. I am and have been an admirer of Pat Martino who I have known for many years. I am sorry to say that until I saw this site I had never heard of you. I will be looking out for your performances in the future.

So I stumbled across this site yesterday and now I can't stop grinning. Fantastic! Thanks for including the videos - seeing is believing. Jim LaDiana's JJG review - great! I agree with Carl: "please videotape a 'live' performance". Thank you, Bob, you are the greatest.

John

hi ....i play guitar all day everyday,but your the jazz master ,im going to buy lots of your music and learn .ive never heard of you over hear in england but i should of done . thatll be cos of that evil britney spears i guess lol ...............goodbye (i must get back to my guitar !!!!!!!!!)

great music...great name.Thought we might be related.I was born in 44 and my real name is Buoniconti.My family was from Bracigliano,Italy and I live in Chicago.

Mr Conti:
After visiting your site let me say, your jazz playing is HOT,DINAMIC AND INSPIRING.Congratulations!.I,m a professional jazz and tango player in my country so my opinion is based on 25 years of playing.I'hope keep in touch with you Sir in the future, to purchase your books and CD's.Thank you very much.

Francisco Rivero
ARGENTINA

Hi Bob, I met you in '98 when you were working the hotel lobby (I think Marriott) in LA. You were fantastic and very kindly took the time to speak with me about guitar. I have since taken it up. Thanks for the inspiration. I'm glad you're still doing it!!

Thanks,
Gale

Hi,
Saturday afternoon I received my source code book four "The Formula" in the mail. Wow! After reviewing just the first two lessons (about an hour), I picked a tune (Autumn In New York) out of my fake book and began reharmonizing using what I had learned from just the first two lessons. I can't believe the results. I will never look at chord progressions and harmony the same way again. I have so many options from which to choose. I plan to attack the next lesson tonight. I would do so sooner but alas I have a day job.

Thanks for a GREAT book!
Al Owens

Dear Bob;

I read with interest the article on you in Just Jazz Guitar. I am a jazz guitarist of the hobby type but wouldlike to do more with it. Ican read music,construct chords as well as play them and know chord substitution for comping. I am working on learning to improvise at the moment. But it is slow going. All of this has been a struggle because for years I was using an incorredt position in terms of my left hand. Most notably my thumb. I had a teacher to and he never pointed the problem out!  But he did teach me to read music.

I would like to become a better player as I now live in Las Vegas where there are many opportunities to play on an amature or even professional basis.

Your song, On Green Dolfin Street, is one of my favorites and after what seems to me a lot of practice I will be able to play it and do it justice. I would like to feel more comfortabel with chord melody style as well as learn to improvise.

Mr. Conti:
My friend Ray Herrick referred me to you. I would like to start taking some lessons for a beginner Jazz Guitarist, Thanks.

Hi Mr. Conti, er Bob Sir,

It's me, Caitlin, Tom Limbergs daughter, I just want to tell you I remember you and your music from the lobby of the Marriot like it was yesterday. I miss seeing you. My dad comes home every night talking about something new from you. In fact my sister just started taking gutair lessons because she loves music too. I just wanted to see this site. It is totally awesome! We all really miss you!

Love Always,
Caitlin Limberg, age 11

Hi Bob,

Congratulations on your web site.You probably won't remember me. My son played with you in the old group the Charms. He played Sax. My grandaughter found this site and let us know.We are very happy you are doing well.Angelo will probably be in touch also.He is in Calif. Email is Jocib@aol.com

Good Luck and God Bless
Angelo Cibotti's mother

Bob,

How the hell are you? Good to see that someone from the old gang is still playing and doing very well I might add. Four or five years ago I found Joe Ponzio. He is a golf teaching Pro in Cherry Hill. The next time you talk to Johnnie C tell him I said hello and feel free to pass on the email address. By the way if you have a private email address let me know and I'll send you my home phone number. I'd love to talk to you or get together somewhere, sometime. Right now I'm living in Catherdral City, Ca which is just east of Palm Springs. The next town over. You know life is funny. Not very long ago I was talking to somebody about the business in general and all these old memories started popping up and I mentioned that my first road job was in New Orleans and how good that band was for bunch of young guys. Well my friend I'll wait to hear from you. I sure hope we can get together. Stay well and I'll talk to you soon.

Ang

Just visited your site....thought I would say hello to let you know I was here. My amp should be here Tuesday...thanks a MILLION!!!! Bring your guitar to the Suncoast!!!!!

Jerry

Hi Mr. Conti:

I'm writing to you in hopes of finding an old friend of mine who played with your group in the sixties, Tony Carr. Do you know of his whereabouts? If you can contact him, can you give him my email address, please. Loved your music since the sixties. I would love to see you when you play in Jacksonville, I go to Delray Beach for the winter. Thank you,

Gloria

Would like a schedule of your gigs. Also do you give lessons? If so, how much per hour? Thanks,

Oly

Just received my first issue of Just Jazz Guitar and was extremely impressed with the arrangement of I Could Write a Book. It was well presented and easy to follow. Very little published chord melody songs have the harmonic fills this arrangement offers. I'm anxious to see similar arrangements of other tunes. I'm also interested in learning how to improvise. Nothing I've tried has worked so far.

Hi, Bob- from Texas, K & J...

Bob, Hello my name is Dana N. Evelyn I worked for you in Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra in the 80,s on those two new homes on the Same street. I was working on the roof. Also we would go to the Plant nursery and buy plants for the new homes. Hope all is well would like to here from you.

Dana

Hey Bob, met you at the Carvin store in santa anna. You are a great player. Talk to you soon

As a former professional jazz guitarist of 50 years, I took a sabatical of 20 years. I started playing again after a 20 year sabbatical. I found myself dregging up old licks. I feelt I needed a spark to get going again. Your "Smoking Lineman" was just what I was looking for. Thanks Bob

Fr. Ron Parker (Born in so. Phila.) I guess it's in the blood.

Bob:
My Dad, Dan Carlin, told me to send you a note, after I played a little Jobim on the guitar for him the other day. I like your website and would like to listen to your music.

Best Regards,
Dan

Hi Robert, how are you? When will you be in CA again? Would love to make CD with choir...

God Bless,
Karen

Bob: I'm Jim Hanson's wife. Are you playing in Vegas? We blew it last time we were there and forgot to email you. I heard you were at the Bellagio. We go there so often. Do you post where you're playing on your website? Thanks.

Hello* I'm jennifer from germany (cologne). I saw a picture from you in william claxtons "jazz seen"...it is a great picture and so i just wanted to know what kind of jazz you make. i listened to a few songs and : wow !great sound!!!! i play the guitar , too and maybe i start to study "jazzguitar" in "maastricht" (nl) this year.
thanks for your good music ! it is something like a inspiration for me! thank you ! (i hope that i'll find a cd of you here in cologne... i heaven't found one yet... )
sorry, but my english isn't very well...but i try*

jennifer

tHE ARRANGEMENTS IN JJG are great,I worked Chicago, KC,Gulf Coast, Denver, LV in 1950 for 16 years, ia mow 81. I am coming to LV, to see you, when are you there,

Allen Kline

I am stunned at finding your music. You truly have mastered the blues/bebop lines and I hope to learn something from your materials.

Gavin

You truly have mastered the blues/bebop lines and I hope to learn something from your materials. I recently saw some very wonderful comments about your music on Carol Kaye's forum...you're awesome!

Robert,

Short story:

I'm a guitarist and songwriter from Detroit. I'm generally considered an "accomplished" player in all styles and mostly freelance around town.

I stumbled on your sight a while ago while "surfing" the internet and was immediately thrilled and inspired. Hearing you play took me back to my high school and college days when playing jazz was just plain fun, and we did it for hours, and money wasn't part of the gig. It reminded me how far away from those days I'd wandered. Playing top 40 gigs, weddings, blues, rock etc. is pretty much the bread and butter of my life these days.

Anyway, I sat down with my archtop and revisited that time for a bit out on my front porch, noodling through the Real Book, trying out a few of your "lessons", and while there, a tune popped out of me that I have subsequently recorded with my group.

Now, I don't consider myself nearly as technically advanced as you – merely proficient. But if you're interested in hearing the recording – of the song that you inspired in me – just lemme no and I'll forward an MP3.

The song is entitled "Schving!!" and will be tucked somewhere into my next CD.

Thanks again, Robert!

Bob,check out My Official Website,and preview of my New CD"The Awakening",under "NEWS"

Needles to say i'm really overwhelmed by your playing, fluid lines and really insane dexterity. i've been playing 7 string jazz guitar for a few years but i was just wondering how do you apply the eight string, what is the tunniing and how do you visualize it? Love to hear from you maybe see a nice arragment for eight (or seven) string.

God Bless...

Just wanted to say that your website is AMAZING! I was browsing the web just for fun, to have a look at some good websites as it helps me in work. Well, I'd be proud to have a website like yours - its very useful and well-designed. So go ahead, and continue to make the web better!