Matt Panayides: NYC Jazz Guitarist and Composer
Matt Panayides is a New York City-based jazz guitarist, composer, and recording artist known for his expressive modern quartet and trio performances. His music blends melodic exploration with rhythmic drive, showcased across critically acclaimed albums including Field Theory and With Eyes Closed.
Matt Panayides is a guitarist and composer based in the New York City area. Influenced by guitar legends such as Jim Hall, John Scofield, Wes Montgomery, Jimi Hendrix, and Joni Mitchell, he has crafted a unique sound that has earned him worldwide recognition amongst cognoscenti. Known for his distinctive playing style and improvisational skills, Panayides frequently leads his own groups and collaborates with other musicians both in New York City and abroad.
Currently, Matt Panayides is returning to the quartet format, building on concepts from his earlier recordings while developing a fresh batch of original compositions. This marks both a continuation and an evolution of the sound he explored on his earlier albums, now shaped by years of performing, composing, and refining his musical voice.
Previously, Panayides had focused on applying ideas from his trio and solo work to the American songbook repertoire and classic jazz compositions. His recent arrangements showcased the natural acoustic sound of his Victor Baker hollow-body guitar, a move away from his earlier, more electric and effects-driven style.
In 2024, Panayides released With Eyes Closed, a trio album featuring Steve LaSpina on bass and Anthony Pinciotti on drums. Released by Pacific Coast Jazz, it focuses on music by the masters of jazz and reached as high as #54 on the JazzWeek charts.
His earlier recordings on Pacific Coast Jazz highlight his original quartet compositions:
Field Theory (2021), featuring Matt Vashlishan (EWI), Rich Perry (tenor sax), Robert Sabin (bass), and Mark Ferber (drums);
Conduits (2015), featuring Rich Perry (tenor sax), Mark Ferber (drums), and Thompson Kneeland (bass);
Tapestries of Song (2011), featuring Rich Perry (tenor sax), Steve LaSpina (bass), and Dan Weiss (drums).
Panayides’ musical journey began in Ohio and Indiana, where he initially played the piano before switching to the guitar, inspired by the likes of Jimmy Page and Jimi Hendrix. He discovered jazz in high school and continued his education at the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied with jazz guitarist Rodney Jones and pianist Garry Dial, both of whom have had a lasting impact. Panayides holds a BM from the Manhattan School of Music and an MM from William Paterson University.
Through his evolving artistry and commitment to exploring new musical landscapes, Matt Panayides continues to make significant contributions to the world of jazz guitar, captivating audiences with his innovative approach and dedication to the craft.