Sunday Morning Blues

Description

Two men, many strings

An experienced master is a guest – one whose job title could almost fill its own program booklet: guitarist, singer, songwriter, producer, teacher, author, and probably also a secret string whisperer. Since the 1980s, Jon has been very active and is appreciated by fans, critics, and fellow musicians alike. Winning the International Blues Challenge in 2019 gave his already impressive career a significant boost. His music books "Gettin‘ Handy with the Blues – a Tribute to the Legacy of W. C. Handy" and "Jon Shain’s Fingerstyle Guitar Method" are considered epic works. His fiery acoustic guitar work has become famous not only for its revolutionary playing technique. Jon continuously develops his own style, blending improvised Piedmont Blues with bluegrass, swing, and ragtime, garnished with songwriting that fits like a perfectly tuned chord. It’s no wonder that greats like Little Feat, John Hiatt, or Keb‘ Mo are eager to bring this exceptional musician to stages around the world. Also participating in the Freiburg Blues Festival is Jon's congenial music partner Mike Bischof. Active for years as a bassist, guitarist, and producer in the Swiss music scene, he has become one of the most sought-after "sidemen" in the country – those musicians who stand in the background and hold everything together. In addition to bass and guitar playing, he shines with solid background vocals and is also known as an inventor: he developed the "Bass'tarre," an instrument that allows him to play both bass and guitar simultaneously. Normally, this requires two musicians, but Mike simply brings it along in his carry-on luggage. In addition to the music, this instrumental marvel can be admired at the Schützen.