Guitarist Matt Marshak Headlines Branford Jazz Series Aug. 4

Submitted and written by Victor Amatori, Jr., Branford Parks & Recreation Program Supervisor

A composer, bandleader, and educator, Matt Marshak is recognized as one of the most unique guitar players/vocalists in the industry today. And when not performing on stage, he demonstrates his unselfishness by contributing a big part of his musical life to educating children.

With his mission of celebrating his love of music with the next generation, Matt will be sharing his passion with the Branford Jazz Series on Thursday, August 4th on the Branford Town Green from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Growing up on the sounds of rock and blues, some of Marshak’s earliest influences were legends of their own rights - Jimi Hendrix, BB King, and Joe Satriani. Later it would be jazz guitarists such as George Benson and Larry Carlton who would influence Matt’s sounds. The late CD101.9 awarded Matt the title of “Best New Artist” and he started to get airplay in New York City and across the country. Soon after, Matt began touring the country and world performing at some of jazz’s biggest events. Tour stops included Spain’s Mallorca Jazz Fest, The Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival, The Seabreeze Jazz Festival and many more.

Some of Matt’s songs have received national airplay with charting songs. His song “Cadillac Kid” has become a staple on Sirius XM’s Watercolors Jazz Station. His collaboration “Cup of Joe” with saxophonist Marcus Anderson received a #1 position on Billboard. His latest album “Simple Man” is Matt’s debut singer songwriter album. The title track has received airplay on Americana and AAA radio stations. Matt’s music is a true mix of all genres and has something to offer everyone in the audience. The new album features eleven songs. Four of which are co-written with Nashville writers Cara Hogan and country music veteran Steve Dean. Dean’s writing includes #1 hits for Reba Mcentire, Rodney Atkins, Waylon Jennings, George Strait, Alabama, and many more. The album brings together soulful Americana, retro country twang, sweet melody, and from the heart emotion. The debut video of “Simple Man” has received over 225,000 views on Facebook alone. New York video producer Adam Forgione helped create a very original storyline video that brings to life the relatable message of “Simple Man”.

The CD release concert for “Simple Man”, brought a full house crowd to the legendary music venue, “My Father’s Place” in Roslyn, Long Island in New York. With countless performances at schools and performances across the country, his award winning children’s music has even earned the prestigious parenting and Parent’s Choice Awards. His musical involvement in Autism Awareness, Multiple Sclerosis, and Cerebral Palsy, has also been a big part of his work.

“I have many great memories on the Green in Branford,” said Marshak, who will be making his third appearance on the Branford Jazz concert series on August 4. “It is an honor to be part of this great community for a great night of music and culture. I am very thankful to have the opportunity once again. I am truly looking forward to it.”