Neil Zaza

Last updated
Neil Zaza
Neil-Zaza 2009.jpg
Zaza in concert, 2009
Background information
Born1964[ citation needed ]
Akron, Ohio, United States
Genres Heavy metal, instrumental rock, neoclassical metal
Occupation(s) Musician, songwriter, record producer
Instrument(s) Guitar
Years active1987 - present
Labels Melodik, Neil Zaza
Website www.neilzaza.com OOjs UI icon edit-ltr-progressive.svg

Neil Zaza is an American guitarist known for his instrumental rock compositions as well as his adaptation of classical works by Bach and Mozart into his own blend of neo-classical, melodic, guitar instrumentals.

Contents

Biography

Neil Zaza was born in Akron, Ohio and began playing the guitar at the age of 10. He went on to study classical guitar at the University of Akron under Stephen Aron. [1] Before beginning a solo career, Neil Zaza formed the rock band ZAZA in 1987. The band toured the U.S. and released an album called Party With The Big Boys in 1991. [2] [3] After his second solo album, Zaza was as a guest soloist with The Hartford Symphony Orchestra, performing “1492” and a guitar interpretation of “West Side Story”.

His CDs often include guest appearances by veteran musicians including:

He has also shared the stage with notable guitarists such as Joe Satriani and Michael Angelo Batio. He holds an annual concert called One Silent Night at the Palace Theater in Cleveland with the backing of the 60 piece Cleveland Rock Orchestra and features his adaptation of popular Christmas songs to his melodic style.

Zaza is known for dramatic entrances, often suddenly appearing from behind projector screens to provide his signature brand of neo-classical guitar virtuosity.

In 2006, Zaza contributed his song "Fargo" to the album project Artists for Charity - Guitarists 4 the Kids, produced by Slang Productions, to assist World Vision Canada in helping children in need. [4]

Discography

With ZAZA

Solo albums

Live albums

Compilation albums/appearances

Collaborations/guest appearances

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References

  1. "Biography". neilzaza.com. Retrieved 10 November 2021.
  2. "Zaza - Party With the Big Boys" . Retrieved 2008-03-15.
  3. "melodic.net: Neil Zaza - Melodica" . Retrieved 2008-03-15.
  4. 1 2 "Slang Productions - Guitarists 4 the Kids". Slang Productions. September 11, 2006. Retrieved March 30, 2014.
  5. "Zaza (13) - Maybe Tomorrow". Discogs.
  6. "Various - Distant Thunder: Sounds Of The Cleveland Metal Storm". Discogs.