Guitar Players

BIOGRAPHY

Tavi Jinariu has distinguished himself as one of the most sought-after classical guitarists in the Los Angeles area. Tavi's guitar playing will add a touch of class and romance and will make your wedding ceremony, corporate event, or special occasion truly unforgettable. From Renaissance and Baroque to Classical and Romantic music, from the serene sounds of Celtic songs to the fiery passion of Spanish and Latin rhythms, Tavi's playing will provide an unforgettable musical experience for you and your guests.

Tavi hails from the beautiful Carpathian Mountains of Transylvania, Romania. He was born in a family fof gypsy musicians where singing and dancing were an integral part of life. At the tender age of five, Tavi watched his uncle performing on an electric guitar. His newfound passion overcame restraint as he quietly snuck into the bedroom to strum the strings of that magical instrument with all his might. Years later, against stifling obstacles, Tavi was largely self-taught on a borrowed guitar. Tavi's musical explorations began at age thirteen when he began a course in basic guitar foundations. Within the following two years Tavi dedicated his efforts to developing his technical and musical aptitudes as they related to the classical guitar. At the age of sixteen, Tavi was exposed for the first time to the sound of the classical guitar. After listening to the beautiful playing of a classical guitarist, Tavi fell in love with the lyrical and melancholic sound of the instrument.

Within three short years of studying the classical guitar, Tavi drew attention, being invited to tour America in the fall of 1998. During this tour Tavi played some sixty concerts in twenty-seven states. This tour proved instrumental in confirming that Tavi was heading towards a musical career. Knowing that this would be unlikely to transpire in his home country, he watched in awe as miracles took place, bringing him to study with "The Greats" in the U.S. by the fall of 1999. In the fall of 1999 Tavi was awarded a generous scholarship that made it possible for him to receive the personalized instruction of the world's preeminent classical guitarist, Christopher Parkening. Bythe age of twenty-three he completed a bachelor's degree with an emphasis on classical guitar performance under the tutelage of Christopher Parkening and John Nelson.

During the past several years, Tavi participated in numerous guitar competitions and won the 1st prize in The ASTA Classical Guitar Competition for the greater Los Angeles Area (2001 and 2002), and the ASTA Artist Guitar Competition for the State of California (2003). Tavis guitar performances have taken him to numerous European countries (Romania, Hungary, Germany, The Netherlands), to Israel, and through most of the United States. He has been featured as a solo artist with various orchestras (New West Symphony, Calabasas Chamber Orchestra, The Masters College Orchestra) and participated in numerous recording projects and radio appearances. As Tavi continues to perform, audiences and critics alike are being caught up in the emotion and electrifying brilliance of the music he creates.

COMMERCIAL REVIEWS

Joel and Nancy Johnson, San Francisco, CA

Tavi's performance added a special touch to our wedding ceremony. His sound and style puts him on par with the greats, such as, Segovia and Parkening. Many guests commented on that portion of the ceremony and how beautifully he played. He is very professional and personable. Tavi will add a touch of class and elegance to any event.

PROFESSIONAL REVIEWS

Christopher Parkening (America's preeminent guitar virtuoso) comments on Tavi's artistry:

"Tavi is an excellent classical guitarist whose fine technique, combined with depth of feeling communicates wonderfully to his audience. His strengths are considerable, among which are a deep love for the guitar, remarkable discipline and motivation, and good musical instincts that give him advanced abilities to interpret the music."

Peter Yates, Professor of Guitar at the University of California Los Angeles

"Tavi has a meaningful connection to the music... a sense of artistry... a fine talent."

Greg Newton, Board of Directors for Guitar Foundation of America

"Spirited and energetic, stylistic and most absorbing playing!"

Paul Plew, Chair of the Music Department at the Master's College

"Tavi's guitar stylings are done with excellence and precision beyond his years... Tavi not only has a high proficiency level in classical guitar with a ranking of the seventeenth best classical guitarist in the country, but he also relates well to students as a teacher."

John Nelson, Music Chair at Grace School and Guitar Performer

"Tavi is one of those rare individuals who is both a concert performer of the highest caliber and a teacher who is able to effectively diagnose, guide and impart to students what is required to master the instrument."

Paul Chihara, Prolific Composer and Conductor

"Dazzling! Clean contrapunctal playing! Fantastic!"

WEDDING CEREMONIES

The lyrical beauty of the classical guitar adds elegance and a touch of romance to any wedding ceremony. Tavi's extensive experience ensures that your wedding music and overall ceremony atmosphere will be exactly how you have always imagined it. You can select music from Tavi's vast repertoire or personalize your wedding ceremony with your own musical selections.

PRIVATE ENGAGEMENTS

Tavi Jinariu has performed for a plethora of special occasions: from concerts with thousands in attendance and private salon recitals to corporate events, wedding anniversaries, and memorial services. Based on the nature of your special event, Tavi will consult with you and will insightfully choose the appropriate type of music. Regardless of the occasion, Tavi's music will put the finishing touches on your special event.

CONCERTS

Tavi Jinariu presents a diverse concert repertoire ranging from Renaissance and Baroque music to Classical, Romantic, Spanish, Latin, Celtic, and 20th century music. Tavi's past concerts consisted of both solo guitar performances as well as performances with chamber and symphony orchestras.

Among other cities, Tavi Jinariu, Classical Guitarist in Los Angeles may serve the following areas: Los Angeles, San Fernando Valley, Southern California, Long Beach, Pasadena, Van Nuys, North Hollywood, Glendale, Santa Clarita, Inglewood, Burbank, City of Industry, Santa Monica, Whittier, Torrance, Canoga Park, Northridge, Woodland Hills, Alhambra, Lakewood, Lancaster, Pomona, Carson, La Puente, Palmdale, Sherman Oaks, Venice, Beverly Hills, Compton, El Monte, Encino, Hollywood