Testimonials
“I’m Like A Tradesman”
When I play a gig, show up to a recording session, or teach a lesson, I’m always trying to do the best job I can do. Playing guitar for a living is no different than being any other tradesman, so I take a very professional attitude with anything I’m a part of. I’ll show up on time (it’s possible even in LA), I’ll be rehearsed and prepared. I’ve got all the appropriate tones for whatever you are looking for. In lessons I’ll do anything I can to help you learn, and give after lesson support as well.
Below you’ll find some people that I’ve worked with and what they have to say about me.
-JM
“Jon Monter is an AWESOME guitarist. He is my #1 call when I need guitar!! Jon is the new James Burton in town!”
-Dave Jerden
“We recently hired Jon to come in on a country and rock ‘n’ roll recording session. He came prepared with some of the most beautiful vintage guitars and amplifiers I’ve ever seen. He’s my new first call guitar player
-Kevin Chubirka
Producer, Owner of Haven Recording
“I’ve been working with Jon for about six years and he’s been a tremendous influence. Not only is he an excellent player, but his straightforward approach to teaching has formed the foundation of my own playing. He can play just about anything he hears and explain it back in real time. Jon taught me music theory, technique, improvisation, and is my first call when im trying to come up with a cool part for a song. Like tabby guitar players, Jon keeps his influences close to heart and by sharing his love of Eric Johnson, Randy Rhoads and Yngwie Malmsteen, he broadened my musical vocabulary. If you’re searching for a fully realized guitarist, look no further!”
-Brett L
Guitar Student, Reseda CA
“Jon Monter has been a friend and our church musician for over 10 years. I know Jon as punctual and meticulous, with a pleasant personality and a great sense of humor. Jon not only mastered playing four part harmonies on the guitar, but he also excels in offering improvised music during mediation / prayer sessions. As serious as Jon is about his career as a musician, he is also a great teacher and a good business man. Jon is a fun person to have around”
-Rudolph van Graan
Pastor, First Congregational Church of Glendale, UCC
“Jon is the true definition of a professional. He has the ability to command any style of music and perform it at a superior level. Jon has been my go to guitar player for years. He’s on time, does his homework and is fun to hang out with. He makes difficult things seem easy”
-Roger Weigel
Band Leader
Jon was my guitar teacher for about 4 years. He helped me to learn many songs my wife and I have listened to over the years. I picked up guitar later in life and came to Jon a beginner and as we worked together I improved so much I didn’t think it was possible. Now im ready for a ‘old guy garage band’ haha. Thanks Jon!
-Mike E
Guitar Student, Agoura Hills CA
Jon Monter is literally the most professional guitarist I have ever had the pleasure to play with, and that is saying something. From the very first studio rehearsal when we met, I was immediately impressed, sensed he was something special, and he hadn’t even played a note!
The man shows up early, sets up all his gear in silence and when I asked if he was ready to play, his response was yes, please call any song you like as he was fully prepared on all of the 15 songs he was assigned. Indeed, he was fully prepared I learned and the session progressed… We are all used the pre-warm up noodling that all guitar players do while they set up, not Jon. He sets up in silence and when it is time to go, the man is prepared on everything.
As Musical Director for a new Cabaret style Supper Club Show, this show requires intense versatility. The show features many genre changes and I have gone through a slew of guitarists, trying to find a pro who can cover the shows requirements. That in itself was not easy at all, but it proved to be easy for this man. Jon covers Latin, Swing, Jazz, Broadway, Pop, Rock and anything I throw at him with ease. He is a rare find and I’m never letting go of this guy who has become a great friend to myself and all of his
bandmates.
I am in Palm Springs and Jon is in L.A. On several occasions I have asked him if he might possibly sub for a few shows with a Rock band I play in out here. Jon did help out and performed. Quite honestly the entire band was overwhelmed at the solos he put down during the shows. I mean seriously wow, what a player he is. This is an excellent working band with residency gigs and now the band is driving me crazy to get him back here for other shows!
He is kind, always prepared, super versatile and lacks all the annoying characteristics often found in the gigging guitarist. He is a treasure and “a find” that I am grateful to for his musical exploits and participation in any aspect of a show when called upon for advice. He is a rare and gifted artist that is super easy to direct and work with.
Doug Galloway AKA “The Hat”
Contemporary Pianist
Musical Director:
Starlettes and The Hat
Big Love Stevie Nicks Tribute
Conductor
Stockton State College Orchestra
I’ve been calling Jon to come and play my acoustic gigs for years now. They happen once or twice a quarter and every time Jon and I hit it off like it had been just days not months since we played. I never have to worry about Jon not knowing the songs, or showing up late. He’s had a stellar record all around with me and Im so glad I can play with him.
-Tim K
Singer / Songwriter
Jon is funny, and very kind. He is really good at teaching how to make the notes sound good. He is very helpful during the lessons. Jon is very good at making music sound nice. If you have a favorite song he can listen to it, learn it, then help you play it. It has been very easy to learn Ukulele.
-Sid K
Ukulele Student, Irvine CA