Jon Shields Biography

Nashville-based guitarist, educator, and composer/songwriter Jon Shields is a maestro of the strings who seamlessly weaves soulful guitar melodies through a tapestry of diverse genres, from the intricate complexities of classical and jazz to the smooth rhythms of R&B and the rustic charm of country. With a career marked by remarkable collaborations and musical innovation in solo performance as well as ensemble, Jon Shields has emerged as a respected guitarist and educator in the ever-evolving landscape of modern music.

Shields' diverse talents have graced a multitude of musical stages. He's performed in orchestras for beloved musicals such as "Aida," "Little Shop of Horrors," "Footloose," "Godspell," "Mama Mia," "Legally Blonde," and various renditions of "Showboat." In addition to sharing the stage with Mary Wilson of the Supremes and other esteemed artists, Jon has brought his guitar magic to venues and events ranging from the intimate Bluebird Cafe to the grandeur of National Festivals, Performing Arts Center, and Broadway in Nashville.

Some of his most recent ventures include releasing his first book. Embarking on a captivating Chicago-Michigan tour alongside brother and fellow musician, Graeme Shields, founder of the Vital Organ Project. Together, they performed as a rare and mesmerizing duo, Guitar and Organ. In 2022, he recorded three traditionally classical albums as well as tested the waters with other genres releasing a whole project of lo-fi music (combining jazz, neo-soul, and contemporary styles) entitled The Rainbow Releases.

The Backstory

In the summer of 2019, Jon Shields made his Nashville debut, and since then, he has been on a relentless musical odyssey. His fingers have been in constant motion, whether performing jazz repertoire, captivating audiences as a side-man, working as a hired-gun in the studio, crafting artist demos, co-writing, or imparting his wisdom through teaching. His immersion in the thriving Nashville music scene has allowed him to become an indispensable figure in the industry.

Jon's commitment to his craft was fostered during his collegiate years at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota. Here, he honed his skills in music theory and guitar performance, driven by a passionate desire to fuse a rich musical knowledge into his own unique sound. Graduating in 2018 with not one but two music degrees and a minor in recording arts, his formal education set the stage for a career that would bridge classical precision with the boundless freedom of jazz.

Upon leaving academia, Jon Shields swiftly established “The Jon Shields Trio,” an ensemble that crisscrossed Minnesota, leaving audiences spellbound. This talented trio graced stages across the state, traversing genres from timeless jazz standards to the soulful sounds of Stevie Wonder and the irresistible charm of pop. Their performances left audiences mesmerized and yearning for more. In the same year, Jon released "For You," an exploration of folk and country influences that garnered local acclaim.

Jon Shields' journey into music was inevitable, given his unique upbringing in a household that celebrated creativity. His love for the art form became evident when, as a child, he insisted on being lulled to sleep by the timeless strains of ZZ Top's "La Grange." His formative years were a symphony of rock music, a genre that shaped his early musical sensibilities.

As a preteen, Jon Shields embarked on a life-changing journey with the guitar while living on the picturesque east coast of Canada. Inspired by the legends of classic rock and the traditional folk melodies of the region, Shields began composing his own compositions, quickly gaining recognition and receiving gig offers that defied his age.

As a dedicated educator, Jon Shields not only enriches the musical world with his performances but also nurtures the talents of tomorrow. His journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of music, inspiring musicians and enthusiasts alike to explore the diverse realms of musical expression.