Home / Arts and Entertainment / Jazz Guitar Master Gene Bertoncini Dies at 89
Jazz Guitar Master Gene Bertoncini Dies at 89
4 Sep
Summary
- Gene Bertoncini, celebrated jazz guitarist, passed away at 89.
- He was known for his lyrical style and innovative jazz duos.
- Bertoncini accompanied legendary singers like Tony Bennett and Lena Horne.
Gene Bertoncini, a jazz guitarist celebrated for his lyrical style and innovative work, died on Saturday at the Actors Fund Home in Englewood, N.J. He was 89.
His career, which began in a duo with his brother, Renny, saw him hailed as both a sensitive accompanist and an innovative bandleader. Bertoncini played with legendary figures including Tony Bennett, Lena Horne, Nancy Wilson, and Benny Goodman.
He forged a significant partnership with bassist Michael Moore, creating a duo credited with redefining the jazz duet. Bertoncini was also adept at the Great American Songbook, European classical music, and Brazilian bossa nova, collaborating with artists like Antonio Carlos Jobim and Joao Gilberto.
Born in the Bronx on April 6, 1937, Bertoncini initially pursued architecture before committing to music. He taught at the Eastman School of Music for over 50 years and influenced countless guitarists through his extensive recordings and performances.
