Steve Edwards
Guitarist-Composer
Guitarist and Composer Steve Edwards is the Dynamic Leader of Guitarra Azul, his unforgettable melodies and both uplifting and melancholic. Steve comes from a Musical Family, and has dazzled audiences around the world with his engaging melodies. As a performer “Stefano” is known for his Dynamic Stage Presence, Charming Charisma and Brilliant Technique. He has appeared across the US and Europe in Numerous Show Bands, as Solo Recitalist, Concerto Soloist, Chamber Musician, and as Half of the Renown Edwards-Simmons Guitar Duo.
Steve holds a Bachelors Degree from De Paul University in Chicago, where he studied under guitar legend Leon Borkowski and pursued Master of Music studies as a scholarship student under master teacher Mark Maxwell. Stefano has also studied with guitar masters Pepe Romero, Christopher Parkening, Denis Azabagic, Douglas Neidt, and Robert Guthrie. He was runner up in the American Society of Musicians Guitar Competion.
Steve has led a highly successful 13 piece Society Orchestra for over 30 years in Chicago and has been a very popular music instructor and show director in the Chicago area, notably for his 12 years at School of Rock.
Steve has been featured in performances with many notable artists, including flamenco guitar master Carlos Montoya, violin virtuoso Gidon Kremer, and legendary jazz pianist George Shearing. He has also been active in theatre productions, most notably The Goodman Theatre’s production of Federico Garcia-Lorca's "Yerma" and Light Opera Works’ production of "Man of La Mancha". His recordings have been featured on WFMT fine arts radio in Chicago and on Radio France.
Steve Edwards is a prolific composer for both film and live theatre, as well as for his beautiful compositions for Guitarra Azul’s critically acclaimed five Albums “Mariposa” “Oasis” “Lotus Flower” “Café Bolero” and the Newly Released “Desert Highway”.
Photography by Pixie Vision Productions