profile

Background

Chris Grundy has been playing Guitar since the age of ten. Armed with a nylon string classic Guitar that was laying about at home, he took some lessons from a local guitar teacher in Sydney, Australia. From then to now has been an incredible journey which has lead him to playing professionally with a broad range of Musicians and bands, performing solo, as well as becoming an 'in demand' Guitar teacher himself.

After leaving school, Chris played in a few bands around Sydney. It was at this time that Chris was able to take a few lessons from Tommy Emmanuel. Tommy was recently called "the Best Guitarist in the World", by the late Guitar Master, Chet Atkins. A couple of years later, Chris was also lucky enough to receive some lessons from Phil Emmanuel, Tommy's brother. These two Guitarists have inspired Chris from the age of thirteen, and was his 'dream come true' to take lessons by the two Guitarists that are certainly regarded the best in Australia, and remain Chris' favourite Guitarists to this day. Their diversity in playing styles, touch, technique, feel and inspiration can be seen whenever Chris plays.

Upon completing studies as an Optician, Chris embarked on his first trip to Japan. A chance meeting on the first day soon had Chris working for the well known Gibson Guitar company. Initially employed as a consultant/clinician, it was more in the field of Artist relations that he ended up working. This would lead to working with some of the biggest names and bands in the Music Industry. Breaking away from this career in 1995, Chris took the opportunity to pursue his own projects.

Instrumental Guitar Show

It took a little time, but in 1996, Chris played his first show of Instrumental Guitar. Inspired by the Emmanuel Brothers (Phil and Tommy)from Australia, as well as some other favourites, Chris put together a show that was, and continues to be, well received by audiences in any venue he plays. Performing hundreds of shows throughout Japan, an audience will always get to enjoy some great Guitar, plus some very mediocre jokes! But the audience will leave with a smiling face, usually saying something to the extent of, "wow!". The show covers tunes by such Artists as Jeff Beck, Santana, SRV, The Shadows, Gary Moore, Fleetwood Mac, The Ventures, The Hellecasters, Chet Atkins, Phil and Tommy Emmanuel, and many more. This proves the diversity of Chris, who's style is impossible to pigeon hole, except to say, "tasty". Recently, Chris has been adding some original material to the show, and these are proving just as popular as the cover tunes.

Composition/Songwriting

Having set up a digital studio facility at home, Chris has been concentrating on original compositions. Mainly in the Instrumental Guitar style, but also with an aim to compose songs for other Artists to perform. This is always an ongoing process, taking in all styles. Tunes such as "Crocodile Grundee" and "Memories of P.C." have become favourites of live audiences in recent times.

Sessions

As a backing Guitarist, Chris has also covered a diverse range of styles, playing in many bands. From Pop to Fusion to Hard Rock to Country to Blues to Oldies to Ambient to just about anything, he has played it. This has lead him to playing with some of the top Musicians around. His ability to improvise is above excellent, and sight reading is no problem. Rhythm, Lead, Electric or Acoustic Guitar are all no problem. Chris is endorsed by Cole Clark Guitars in Japan, and performed promoting these Guitars at a recent trade show in Tokyo.