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Keith WyattLos Angeles-based musician, teacher and writer.
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Musical Influences
- The San Francisco Years
- The Guitar Tech Journey
- Teaching and Performing
- The Evolution of Music Education
- The Blasters and Beyond
- Authorship and Columns
- Legacy and Impact
Early Life and Musical Influences
Growing up in suburban Washington, D.C., Keith Wyatt was not immediately exposed to a vibrant musical culture. However, the region proved to be a fertile ground for exceptional musicians such as Link Wray, Charlie Byrd, John Fahey, Nils Lofgren, Roy Buchanan, and Danny Gatton.
Despite his surroundings, Wyatt's early musical tastes leaned towards surf rock, The Rolling Stones, and Marty Robbins. Inspired by these artists, he picked up the guitar and formed a band with schoolmates. As he grew older, his musical interests shifted towards harder-edged sounds like Jimi Hendrix and British blues.
The San Francisco Years
Wyatt eventually relocated to San Francisco, where he encountered pianist Mark Naftalin, producer Norman Dayron, and harpist Jimmie Wood. It was during this time that he discovered the raw power of Chicago blues, opening a gateway to the rich tapestry of American roots music.
The Guitar Tech Journey
Driven by his aspirations for a professional music career, Wyatt recognized the importance of honing his skills further. Upon reading about the launch of the Guitar Institute of Technology (GIT) in Hollywood, a specialized school for professional electric guitarists, he promptly enrolled as part of the second class in spring 1977.
GIT provided Wyatt with invaluable practical knowledge, mentorship from renowned professionals, and a supportive environment where 5-6 hours of daily practice was the norm. The atmosphere fostered a belief that great musicians are made, not born, through relentless hard work and dedication.
Teaching and Performing
After graduating, Wyatt landed a teaching position at GIT, collaborating with legendary guitarist Howard Roberts. Simultaneously, he applied his newfound skills as a performer in various Los Angeles bands. Wyatt's preference for group collaborations over session work stemmed from his desire for a more cohesive musical experience, despite the challenges that came with working in bands.
As GIT expanded into a comprehensive music school, Wyatt embraced the opportunity to engage with renowned artists such as Jack Bruce, Ginger Baker, Mick Taylor, and Albert Collins.
The Evolution of Music Education
Recognizing the transformative power of technology, Wyatt and his colleagues at GIT embraced advancements in audio and video media. As cassettes gave way to compact discs and subsequently to online learning platforms, they adapted their teaching methods to meet the changing needs of students.
The Blasters and Beyond
One of the bands Wyatt performed with was The Blasters, a seminal Los Angeles rockabilly group formed by high school friends. After guitarist Dave Alvin's departure in 1986, Wyatt collaborated with several notable guitarists, including Billy Zoom, Hollywood Fats, Greg "Smokey" Hormel, and James Intveld.
Authorship and Columns
Wyatt's passion for teaching extended beyond the classroom. He penned instructional books such as "Harmony and Theory: the Essential Guide," "Ear Training for the Contemporary Musician," "Blues Rhythm Guitar," and "Blues Guitar Soloing," often co-writing with Carl Schroeder.
From the early 1990s, Wyatt contributed columns and articles to virtually every major guitar magazine, exploring the rich and diverse musical heritage of the United States.
Legacy and Impact
Wyatt's contributions to the music industry have earned him widespread recognition as one of the most respected figures in guitar education and contemporary music. He retired from his teaching post at GIT in 2014 but continued to share his knowledge through his "School of Blues Guitar" project at artistworks.com.
Leveraging video exchange capabilities, Wyatt personally mentors students worldwide while maintaining his active musical career. His work with The Blasters continues to demonstrate the practical application of the principles he teaches to his students.
