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Tony Monaco may be the best organ player you haven’t heard of yet, flying under the radar while playing arguably some of the hottest B-3 around. Mentored by the legendary Jimmy Smith in what is considered the classic style, Monaco doesn’t just swing, he blazes. As CriticalJazz Review stated in 2012, “Tony Monaco burns is most fitting!”
Monaco’s journey with the keyboard began at the tender age of eight. By twelve, his fate as a jazz organist was sealed when he first heard Jimmy Smith. Eager to learn, Tony started performing in jazz clubs as a teenager in his hometown of Columbus, Ohio, under the guidance of local organ luminaries Hank Marr and Don Patterson. Four years later, Jimmy Smith extended an invitation for Tony to play at his club in California, a peak experience for the young musician.
In April 2000, Tony crossed paths with fellow jazz organist Joey DeFrancesco, who offered to produce his debut CD. This collaboration resulted in the critically acclaimed “Burnin Grooves.” The international success of the recording launched regional and national tours for Monaco. Since then, he has released eight international albums and toured the globe multiple times. Tony also toured and recorded with Pat Martino for over two years.
As a dedicated student of the organ, it’s no surprise that Tony is also an accomplished teacher. In addition to teaching private students, classes, and clinics, he has produced a series of instructional DVDs titled “Playing Jazz Hammond,” which have become essential for many serious organ students. Tony continues to expand his teaching methods using the latest technologies, offering one-on-one lessons online to students worldwide. His passion for teaching earned him the “Artist in Residence” status at Hope College in Holland, Michigan, where he teaches both online and in-person workshops and one-on-one sessions.
Currently, Tony maintains a hectic schedule that includes appearances at festivals, clinics, and workshops, showcasing his unmatched talent on the Hammond organ.
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