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Success Stories
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FROM THE ARCHIVES
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Chris Sobkowich (GIT '94)
Jan 01, 2005
Guitar
Guitarist Chris Sobkowich came to GIT from Canada armed with a college-level classical guitar education but looking for a way to turn his skills into a living. Since graduation, his goal has been fulfilled even as his music has strayed far from traditional paths. “I went right into recording with a band called Rumble Tribe,” says Chris, “and we released a CD in Japan and Europe. I also played on records with artists such as House of Lords and Nancy Sinatra. Since then, I have played with bands including The Bay City Rollers and Gene Loves Jezebel and I have also just started my own project called Clear. We just got out of the studio where we worked with legendary producer Andy Johns and are playing around LA. The next year looks very promising- we already have gigs booked with Matchbox 20, Sugar Ray and Duran Duran.”
As Chris looks back on his MI experience from a ten year perspective, he offers these thoughts: “Back home I had some success with guitar and won three big guitar competitions, but I really was a big fish in a small pond. When you come to LA it’s like jumping in the ocean. The education I received [in Canada] was valuable, but the unique thing about MI is that it is more directed towards getting out there and making a living playing guitar. Beyond how the curriculum is structured, I think the most powerful thing about MI is the interaction between all the great students from around the world and the outstanding teachers. You get a worldly view of guitar and music and because you are around so many talented, driven people. It makes you focus on what your strengths are as a musician, and from there you can make the most of it and set off in the right direction. I believe that my time at MI was part of the reason for my success.”
In the accompanying photo, Chris is on the left with Andy Johns (seated) and bassist Aaron Samson (formerly with ODEN).
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