Jazz Vespers on 2/23 @ 4:00pm

Pasquale Grasso, an Italian-born guitarist now based in New York, is renowned for his extraordinary technique and unique blend of jazz and classical influences. Pat Metheny, in a 2016 interview, praised Grasso as "the best guitar player I've heard in maybe my entire life," noting his ability to capture the essence of bebop piano on guitar—particularly the styles of Bud Powell, Charlie Parker, and Dizzy Gillespie. Grasso’s sound is deeply influenced by classical guitar and jazz giants, including Art Tatum and Joe Pass, leading to a highly distinctive solo style.

Grasso won the Wes Montgomery International Jazz Guitar Competition in 2015 and has performed with notable artists such as Pat Martino, Charles Davis, and Freddie Redd. He regularly performs at Mezzrow in New York and continues to evolve as a musician, blending traditional jazz with classical elements. Grasso’s debut digital EPs with Sony Masterworks, showcasing his mastery of solo guitar, further cement his reputation in the jazz world.

Growing up in Italy, Grasso was inspired by his family’s love of music, especially jazz and classical. He was mentored by guitarist Agostino Di Giorgio and later by bebop legend Barry Harris. In 2008, Grasso began studying classical guitar, further enriching his jazz technique. Since relocating to New York in 2012, he’s been a prominent figure on the jazz scene, performing with jazz legends and exploring the works of jazz icons like Monk, Powell, and Parker.