Today we’d like to introduce you to Gio Lombardi.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My story started decades ago in Italy. I was about 10 when I fell in love with music, a guitar was available at home, my father knew how to play a few songs. Later on, my sister took a few guitar lessons, but somehow that guitar ended in my hands and the love story that has changed my life begun. This incredible journey has brought me around the world, has given me the chance to meet, play, and interact with many talented artists across the continents. It has enriched me with an incredible life experience that made me understand what identifies the essence of a person, that element, is unmistakably the “soul”.
I was on my first professional gig, playing guitar as a steady band member on board of cruise ship when I’ve decided to apply to the Musician’s Institute here in Hollywood. I wanted to get a college education in contemporary music styles so coming to L.A. was my goal. I’ve mailed my application from the Rio De Janeiro office of the cruises ship company I was working for. Three weeks later, I’ve got my response “You’re admitted”…and that brought me here to L.A.
After graduation, another journey began, I like to call that chapter “The L.A. survival fight” To win that fight I’d to develop a thick armor, maintain a clear vision of what my ultimate goal was though out the years. That’s how I’ve managed to establish my name in the music business….and I’ believe it’s the only way.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Far from it. I’ve never experienced “a smooth road” so far, and to be honest with you, it would be nice for a chance to have that experience. The struggles are at different levels, definitely on a human level and on a professional level just to mention two, It’s extremely hard to survive in this business, I’m sure that it applies to all business but the music business is the one I know.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
In my business, I wear three hats, I’m a performer, a composer, and an instructor. As a performer and composer/producer, I get calls from artist/bands in different circles of music, that is not common considering that music circles are pretty exclusive. I like the idea of being able to play and produce R&B, Funk & Soul, Smooth Jazz, and then dive into the world Latin music to then find myself into a pop-rock context.
As an instructor, I have student retention in terms of years, some of them started as absolute beginners, to become professional players or Conservatory professors in some cases.
Of all of that, I’m very proud.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Stubbornness, determination, and vision. Without all of them together, I would not have made it.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.giolombardi.com
- Phone: 323-640-0068
- Email: giomusic2006@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1giolombardi/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Giosart/
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