Rik Jonna

An abundant playlist of Jazz Standards and Classics / Solo guitar arrangements

BRIEF BIO
Rik began playing guitar at the age of 12 and, by his early teens, was drawn to and began the process of listening and learning the fundamentals of jazz. In 1970, while submerging himself in this diverse, complex and improvisational realm of music, he was introduced to and befriended one of his favorite musicians, pop-jazz guitar giant George Benson. Soon after, he met jazz guitar virtuoso/ composer, Pat Martino. “1971 was a turning point in many ways as Pat had become my mentor, “big brother” and dear friend… and still is!” Rik has maintained a very close relationship with Pat, with whom, over the years, he has also studied privately and interacted with on a personal basis.
After 2 semesters in undergrad, studying fine art, design, and painting, Rik’s ongoing passion and love for jazz guitar ultimately motivated him to audition for enrollment at the Berklee College of Music in Boston MA where he earned an Arranging & Composition Degree. Upon leaving Berklee, his time was spent teaching privately, composing, and performing in local venues.
Rik’s longtime friendship with Grammy Award-winning guitar wizard, Earl Klugh, inspired him to further explore finger-style guitar. In 1998, Rik launched a business dealing high-end, hand-crafted classical guitars internationally, built by the most reputed luthiers from around the world. This was a period of time where he listened to classical music on a daily basis, studied the classical guitar and its history while, at the same time, improving his finger-style technique.
Rik had also studied Tools and Strategies of Lyric Writing at UCLA, separating lyrics from poetry. His ability was put to use in the early 90’s, when he collaborated as lyricist for several of Earl Klughs' instrumentals. Rik put his lyric writing skills to work on his beautiful, multilingual, classical-crossover song, "Meladonia", which may be heard on his self-titled album, “RIK JONNA”.
Throughout the years, his passion for guitar and composition hasn't let up. He has continued to teach, study, perform and compose on a consistent basis for over 4 decades, completing over 60 Original Compositions.
In 2020, Rik began studying Middle Eastern Music and playing the oud. These days, he also continues teaching, embracing the guitar, enjoying the art of composing, and, of course, life itself. Aside from music, Rik has exhibited and completed over 120 pieces of original fine artwork and sculptures.
In 2024, he moved from South Florida back to Birmingham Michigan.
Rik is available for traditional jazz duo or solo guitar situations.
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