Christopher Leighton

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Born in the Bronx, NY, Christopher Leighton (Cjeff) has been performing and recording for the better part of three decades as a solo artist and in bands on stages from Las Vegas to Nashville.

Christopher's introduction to guitar fundamentals was from a classical standpoint. However, after finding a book on jazz guitar in the local library, he photocopied the chord charts, learned them all and began ("to my parents dismay"), playing rock'n'roll. His initial forays into lead guitar were influenced by Jethro Tull (Martin Barre), King Crimson (Robert Fripp), Carlos Santana and Eric Clapton.

While living in Des Moines, Iowa, he studied music theory with Don Archer while working with the Iowa Arts Council, teaching and playing in many venues. He began playing in clubs and at various events (including the Iowa State Fair and the Jerry Lewis telethon), as a solo artist and with acoustic and electric bands.

He spent three years on the road, traveling across America with two show bands, playing musical material ranging from 'Dream Girls' to Lee Rittenour.

Following "a series of interesting events", he now resides in Mahopac, New York with his wife Lidia, five parrots, two cats, and four aquariums worth of fish.

His musical compositions are influenced by a wide range of artists, including Mark Knopfler, Pat Metheny, Weather Report, George Gershwin, Keith Emerson, Thelonius Monk, Alan Holdsworth, Van Halen and Lee Rittenour.

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Christopher Leighton

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