Peter Zisa performs for Maestro Andres Segovia
BIOGRAPHY
Peter Zisa’s early training on guitar began at age 10 under the direction of jazz guitarist Mike Sparr. After attending a performance of Maestro Andres Segovia, Mr. Zisa’s interest turned to the classical guitar. His first year of study on classical guitar began with Guy Horn, after which, he continued his studies under the tutelage of David Grimes, professor at California State University Fullerton. In addition to his training from Mr. Grimes, Mr. Zisa performed at master classes conducted by such renown guitarists as Maestro Andres Segovia, Jose Rey de la Torre, Oscar Ghilglia, Pepe and Angel Romero, Jose Tomas, Michael Lorimer, John Duarte, David Leisner, Abel Calevaro, and George Sakallerio. In 1986, Mr. Zisa earned a Master of Music degree in performance at California State University, Fullerton. In the summer of 2007, he began work on his Ph.D. in Education.
Mr. Zisa’s early recital performances began at the age of thirteen. His performances at Conservatories of Music, colleges, libraries, and recital opportunities in southern California were warmly received. During his college years, Mr. Zisa performed extensively at universities and music festivals including the Carmel Guitar Festival, Annual Baroque Concert Series (Laguna Beach), Cypress College, California State University Northridge, University at Santa Barbara University College of the Dessert, BIOLA University, Northridge Guitar Society, the Orange County Guitar Society, University of San Diego, Long Beach State University, and as a repeat performer at the Mount Saint Antonio Concert Guitar Series. In 1979, he was awarded first place in the annual Solo Classical Guitar Competition sponsored by the American String Teacher’s Association. Mr. Zisa was also a semi-finalist in the Young Concert Artist Competition in 1983. In addition to performances in this country and abroad, Mr. Zisa has also appeared on radio and television.
Peter Zisa currently lives in Portland Oregon. He is presently on staff at Cascade College, Portland Community College, and Marylhurst University. He has published three general music books, and numerous guitar books on such topics as guitar technique, fingerboard theory, accompaniment styles, and art of improvisation. Mr. Zisa’s newest published work, Class Guitar Method book, is slated for release in 2008.
