ANTONIO
COCUZZO

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Canadian guitarist, composer, arranger, and educator Antonio Cocuzzo is known for his unique style that blends many diverse musical traditions. These include Jazz, Classical, Rock, and Worldly musical styles from Brazil, Argentina and Italy that amalgamate to create a memorable sound that pleases audiences.

As a guitarist, Antonio demonstrates virtuosic versatility on both electric and nylon string guitar. He is a seasoned musician with experience in the studio and on the stage. Antonio’s musicianship has been described as “always in service to the music at hand and displays the mastery of contributing the right notes at the right time”. (Dr. Kim Perlak, Chair of Guitar Department, Berklee College of Music)

 

Antonio’s portfolio includes recording guitar for Film/TV, studio-session work and playing in many diverse ensemble settings which make him an adaptable and sought-after musician in the industry. His abilities sit atop a strong musical education as he has studied in the Royal Conservatory of Music in Canada and graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in performance from Berklee College of Music.

 

Cultivating a unique brand of nylon string guitar playing, Antonio incorporates elements of jazz and classical guitar as well as rhythms and idiosyncratic elements from the Brazilian guitar tradition. Using extended techniques such as harmonics, harp scales and creative uses for the open strings of the guitar, Antonio is blazing his own trail and developing his own voice on the instrument. His most recent projects include a dynamic rock fusion instrumental EP called “First Steps", which features his tasteful and commanding skillset on the electric guitar. In addition, his latest album called “Travels” is a contemporary Jazz/World music influenced album showcasing his ability to compose compelling music that paints beautiful sonic landscapes for listeners. For the last 5 years, Antonio has also been rocking the stage as the guitarist for the exciting symphonic rock band called Daniel Monte. Blending elements of classical romanticism and hard rock, this group has been wowing audiences in theatres and at festivals across different parts of Canada. The band has a loyal and ever-growing fan base, so be sure to follow them at www.danielmontemusic.com

 

His passion for music is not only evident in his work in the studio and on stage, but also manifests in his desire and enjoyment in being able to teach and help cultivate musical talent and aspirations in students. He has taught both in private and group settings as a freelancer and in music academies. Through teaching subjects like theory, song writing, ensembles, and private guitar lessons, he has achieved an understanding on personalizing his pedagogical approaches to support the needs of his students. 

 

Antonio is a collaborative spirit and always supportive of his peers, bandmates, and students. His versatile abilities, experience and focus make him a dependable asset both musically and personally in any professional situation. He believes that great music is made when everyone trusts and enjoys each other’s company. Be sure to keep your eyes and ears open for what Antonio does next, as it is sure to be special.

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