Biography

My initial infatuation with music was a result of Elvis Presley.
After his emergence on the public stage, I immediately asked my folks to buy me an official Elvis guitar (which they did). I couldn't really play it, but my parents always applauded after one of my impromptu performances in the living room. I also remember get a small drum set for my fifth birthday which of course drove everyone crazy.

Finally, there was always a piano in our home, and while I never took lessons, I would often sit down in front of the keys and let my childish fingers -- and imagination -- play a beautiful symphony. Ah, fantasy!

Then came high school and The Beatles. Everyone, it seemed, was trying to play the guitar because it was the primary way of looking cool in front of the girls. While everyone was playing most of the popular songs containing the three basic chords, I was already experimenting with writing and playing my own stuff. It was all very heavy and deep, such as:

"What joy is there to being? What's that blind man really seeing? In the darkest night, there is always light -- light of mind and light of spirit. It's loud enough so you can hear it."

However, the real joy it seemed was when I formed my first rock band. Actually, I thought I was wasn't good enough to play guitar in a band, so I decided to play drums. The band was called "The Electric Harpoon" and we actually played at quite a few gigs. Most notably was the time we played at Florida's very first "Love In" in a park on the beach. My biggest thrill was playing the drum solo in "In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida" by Iron Butterfly.

I also acted (mostly starred) in almost all of the plays in high school and college. Everyone thought I should go to New York City (which I did later) and become famous (which I almost did). So, I listened to my friends and went to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in The Big Apple. While there, I did some stage plays, television and a film or two. I couldn't play drums in my apartment, so I started playing guitar again.

Since the early days, I've been in and out of rock bands as well as on and off theatrical stages. And I've met so many wonderful, inspiring and famous people along the way. But my favorite people have always been those folks who listen to and enjoy my music.

I know from experience that I'm an acquired taste. Not everyone is a kindred spirit in my enjoyment of quirky songs and music that makes you think a little harder. I simply love being in this special relationship with my music and the people who enjoy it.

Today, I spend most of my time writing original songs. I also play live music at parties and weddings because I receive a lot of pleasure from being part of other people's celebrations. I also founded an organization called "Musicians For Charity, Inc." which connects music and musicians with community charities. Community service is a meaningful experience and a big part of my life.

Anyway, I hope you'll visit my web site and keep listening to my music.

John Schneider