Dmitri Shapira

New York based guitarist, Dmitri Shapira, performs highly improvised music on an eclectic repertoire. From Duke Ellington to Jimi Hendrix, Dmitri draws from a variety of sources, including his own compositions to base his improvisations and fresh interpretations. At one moment his music may reflect the harmonic density of Olivier Messiaen and the next, a vocal approach to melody, inspired by his study of Hindustani music. A study of the sitar, and a love of the voice has led to a decidedly “un-guitaristic” approach to the
instrument. Influenced by a wide range of styles, Dmitri blends elements of jazz, Indian and western classical music into one original
sound.

• Appearances at local venues, Knitting Factory, Le Poisson Rouge,
Pete’s Candy Store, etc.
• Freelance Visiting Artist – New England Conservatory
• Curator of With Practice and Abandon Concert Series; Produced Olivier
Messiaen and Improvisation Tribute Concert at Jordan Hall, Boston

Education
1987-1991 B.ABerklee College of Music, graduated Magna Cum Laude
1995-1997 M.M. in Improvisation, New England Conservatory of Music