One of the world’s most sought-after acoustic guitarists, Frank Vignola, will headline West Shore Community College’s Performing Arts Series on Saturday, Sept. 20, at 7:30 p.m. in the Center Stage Theater. He will be accompanied by Vinny Raniolo.
Vignola is celebrated for his mastery across genres—swing, hard bop, post-bop, fusion, rock, and blues. Jazz icon Les Paul once named him among the top five guitarists in the world, a distinction Vignola has affirmed through collaborations with Bucky Pizzarelli, Lionel Hampton, Donald Fagen, Queen Latifah, Ringo Starr, Madonna, Dave Grisman, and Mark O’Connor. His Gershwin tribute album, I Got Rhythm, earned NPR’s “Top Ten Jazz CD” recognition.
With more than 1,000 performances in the past five years, Vignola has built a global reputation as one of the most dynamic and versatile guitarists performing today. He is a frequent guest on NPR and PBS, including features on Tommy Emmanuel and Friends and his own PBS special, Four Generations of Guitar, produced by Peter Berkow.
Raised on Long Island, Vignola picked up the guitar at age five and quickly absorbed a wide spectrum of influences—from Django Reinhardt and George Barnes to rock legends like Frank Zappa and Eddie Van Halen. His eclectic style and unmatched technical skill continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Professor of Music and Director of Performing Arts Ted Malt stated, “We are excited to have Frank and Vinny back at Center Stage Theater. You can expect an incredible musical evening, as they put on a great show that keeps their audiences entertained.”
For tickets and full season information, visit https://www.westshore.edu/performing-arts/