John Mery

Instructor of Classical Guitar

Latin American Music

John Mery was born in Santiago,Chile, grew up in the US and has lived and studied music in Spain, Italy and France. John began playing the guitar at an early age and, like most guitar players, was originally interested in rock and other popular styles. He discovered the classical guitar after his family moved to Spain when he was eleven; it greatly inspired him. Upon returning to the U.S. he dedicated himself to the study of classical guitar; he became completely absorbed in pushing the boundaries of his abilities in music. His skills earned him a scholarship to the prestigious guitar program at the University of  Arizona where he went on to receive a master’s degree in guitar performance. During his time as a  student, John was awarded a number of prizes in guitar competitions and  was invited to perform in master classes held by some of the world’s top guitarists, including David Russell, Abel Carlevaro, Oscar Ghilia and Christopher Parkening. John  has performed as a soloist and in ensembles across the U.S., in Europe, and in South America. His performances have been featured on television and radio and he has been featured as soloist and ensemble member in numerous recordings produced in the Pacific Northwest including his own 2008 release John C. Mery “Solo Guitar”. He is a D’Angelico Guitars Proudly Endorsed Artist. 

 He moved to Portland, OR in 1999, where he became head of the music program at Portland Community College. Since then, he has become a regular member of the Northwest music scene as he continues to perform in a wide variety of genres and styles. He has played with the Oregon Guitar Quartet since 2006 and is also a member of the new tango quintet “Tango Pacifico” which specializes in the music of Astor Piazzolla. John’s other passions include gourmet cooking and traveling (he speaks a number of languages fluently). He also shares his time and talent with his wife and two children.

University of Arizona M.M. Guitar Performance/New Media Studies

University of Arizona B.M. Guitar Performance