Michael Occhipinti

Occhipinti is an innovative jazz guitarist willing to explore the boundaries of his instrument while still rooted in the traditions of the art form. Having released his own solo albums, he's also the co-leader of the 16-piece NOJO (Neufeld-Occhipinti Jazz Orchestra). Holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in music, with honors, from Toronto's York University, he is versed in many other different styles of music, including funk, R&B, blues, and musical theater. These skills and influences are apparent in his music with NOJO and on his own. You're likely to hear echoes of Jimi Hendrix to Duke Ellington to the Art Ensemble of Chicago, and beyond. In fact, Occhipinti is a firm believer in incorporating more than just the obvious jazz influences in his work, as evident on his 2000 release Creation Dream, a strong and adventurous collection of instrumental interpretations of Canadian singer/songwriter Bruce Cockburn's songs.