Guitarists and composers Stan Ayeroff and Dani Vargas will perform together at Boulevard Music this week, so Ayeroff told the News about what they have in store for Culver City…
When did you start playing and performing, and when did it get serious?
I have written extensively about this on the blog section of my website: I had some older cousins, Richard and Bruce, who were of the “Rebel Without A Cause” generation. When I would sleep over at their house I was exposed to Elvis Presley, Little Richard, Chuck Berry, and Jerry Lee Lewis for the first time. They had the records so I could look at the album covers and see what they looked like as well as listen to them. Those guys seemed to be doing something wild to my young eyes and ears. The excitement and rebellious spirit of these colorful characters was very attractive to an 8-year-old boy.
Describe the sound…
Though I’ve played all types of guitars during my long career (electric and acoustic), I have gravitated to playing a classical guitar for all my solo guitar performances. I find it to be the most sensitive and responsive instrument for me to convey my musical intentions.
What are your career highlights so far?
There are many. Here are a few: Playing in the Battle of the Bands at the first Teenage Fair at The Hollywood Palladium and getting to hear Dick Dale and The Deltones in their prime. Playing the premiere of “The Last Tango in Paris” with The Mystic Knights of the Oingo Boingo and having Mae West sitting a few feet in front of me. Playing a solo guitar gig at The Bistro in Beverly Hills for the princess of Spain and having Sean Connery and Sophia Loren dancing together to my guitar playing. Writing 14 music books that are my contribution to the world of the guitar. The first one on Django Reinhardt was published in 1978. Conducting a chamber orchestra for Heart for a live DVD recording in Seatle for Capital Records.
Being the musical director and leading a band for Roger Daltrey and playing “My Generation” and “Pinball Wizard” with Roger singing. Playing at the first Woodstock Fingerstyle Guitar Festival in August of this year. Finally made it to Woodstock. Being the bandleader, composer, and arranger for The Snapdaddys and Dream Street and playing with some of the greatest musicians in the world.
Do you have any recorded music available?
Yes, you can find a list on my website: stanayeroff.com/recordings.html. I also have a YouTube Music Channel with over 75 solo guitar videos.
Have you performed at Boulevard before? Any memories?
Yes, I have performed with my group Dream Street and also played solo for Boulevard’s Holiday shows over the years. It’s always a great listening room for acoustic music.
What can we expect from the set this time?
I will be playing some of my favorite songs in a variety of styles such as Jazz, Swing, Brazilian, Latin, Pop and Country.
What else do you have coming up?
More concerts and recordings.
Stan Ayeroff performs with Dani Vargas at 8 p.m. on Saturday, November 14 at Boulevard Music. More info on the show at boulevardmusic.com.
Elsewhere this week
Culver City’s music venues have a full calendar of entertainment this week. For the Cinema Bar, that includes the Hot Club of Los Angeles (every Monday), Open Mic Night every Wednesday, and more. For more information, go to thecinemabar.com.