Montana Skies
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Montana Skies

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Band Rock Classical

Calendar

Music

Press


"Atlanta Journal Constitution"

"...rambling across a map of influences from American folk and Arabic music to jazz, flamenco and pop. And Montana Skies' unrelenting tour schedule is geared toward taking this harmonious hybrid to the masses." - Atlanta Journal Constitution


"Classical Jam Band"

"A wide reaching.. and rocking duo.. with the wondrous eclecticism and dynamic sound." - Honest Tune Magazine- the journal of jam


"Morrison Center"

"The buzz these talented musicians created will give our series an enormous boost... reminds us of the power and magic of a live performance." - Morrison Center for the Performing Arts, Boise, ID


Discography

Please visit I-Tunes for purchasing dpds, or for streaming visit
http://www.montanaskies.bandcamp.com

Digital Distribution is through IODA.

2011- Montana Skies, cello.gutiar.fusion
(Sonic Grapefruit Records)

2009- Live from the Mable Barnes Amphitheater, DVD + CD
(Sonic Grapefruit Records)

2006- Lift
(Sonic Grapefruit Records)

2004- Chasing the Sun
(Sonic Grapefruit Records) reached # 1 on instrumental radio charts and won Montana Skies "Best new Acoustic Group" in Lifestyle Radio Awards 2005

2002- Montana Skies reached # 1 on instrumental radio charts
(Sonic Grapefruit Records)

2004- Getting Into Fingerstyle Guitar
(Mel Bay Publications)

Photos

Bio

MONTANA SKIES BIO
Their name, Montana Skies, is a metaphor for musical freedom, and they continue to follow their creative instincts far beyond traditional boundaries. In concert, these award winning musicians delve into music from Pink Floyd and Rush to Vivaldi, and House of the Rising Sun, as well as their own originals that have been featured everywhere from NPR to the Travel Channel. Montana Skies seemingly non- stop tour schedule has taken them all across the US as well as to Canada, Asia, and Russia; and their dedication to their musical vision has helped them build an enthusiastic grassroots fan base along the way. Combining elements of classical technique, jazz improv and the power and energy of rock n' roll; Jonathan's guitar wizardry and Jenn's blazing electric cello combine to create a sound that is truly remarkable. While the music defies simple categorization, it is a fusion in the truest sense of the word. It's been called everything from chamber rock to psychedelic strings. Whatever you want to call it, rest assured, this ain't your grannies chamber music.
Jonathan and Jennifer met while studying music at the University of Georgia. Recognizing a kindred spirit in each other's devotion to their music, the desire to share music together was ignited immediately. The two assumed they would be performing classical recitals and great works for the cello and guitar; then, in one trip to the library to select music, their whole world of classical intentions came crashing down. The discovery: music written for cello and guitar was as rare as the combination itself -- no great classical works existed. What resulted from this new musical freedom of expression between the two was the formation of Montana Skies, and a unique style of music that would garner instant recognition and praise. Jonathan explains, "The fact that 'ready made' repertoire is not available for our combination of instruments is really what pushes us to be more creative with our music. We love composing and arranging, and appreciate the opportunity to present old favorites, along with newer music, to our audiences."
Montana Skies' name is taken from one of the first songs Jonathan composed for the group titled "Montana Skies." The song was written specifically about being in Montana and the joy of inspiration Jonathan felt from its natural beauty. At the time of its composition, he and Jennifer were completing their individual studies of music (he in Montana and she in Italy). Written during a crucial turning point in their relationship, the song marked the beginning of the duo's musical collaboration and their newly found sound.
Montana Skies maintains an active touring schedule. Highlights from their touring have included: the Moscow International Auto Show in Russia, the Seoul Arts Center (2,500 seats) in S. Korea, Great Falls Civic Auditorium (1,800 seats) in Montana, the Tanner Amphitheater in Mt. Zion, Utah and the Morrison Center in Boise, Idaho (Backstage series). Jonathan's full length instructional book and CD, "Getting Into Fingerstyle Guitar" was published in 2002 by Mel-Bay Publications. Jenn is an NS Design artist and featured in their electric cello ad campaigns.
For tour schedule, video and more please visit: www.montanaskiesmusic.com