"In the age of mediocrity and clones, John Stowell's uniqueness and originality is a breath of fresh air. I love playing with him." PAUL HORN
"John Stowell plays jazz, but he doesn't use any of the cliches; he has an incredible originality. John is a master creator." LARRY CORYELL
"...can make an electric guitar sound like a singing voice." NAT HENTOFF
"More guitarists would play like John Stowell if they knew how." HERB ELLIS
John Stowell began his successful career with guitar lessons in his native Connecticut from guitarist Linc Chamberlind, and from John Mehegan, pianist and respected jazz educator at the Julliard School of Music and Yale University. Several years later he met noted bassist David Friesen in NYC and launched a critically acclaimed touring (Itinerary) and recording association that lasted 7 years, included 6 albums, (Discography) and performances in Europe, Canada, USA and Australia.
"He plays his amplified guitars as if he were surrounded by fine crystal...the type of slow burning, sustained energy that you hear in players that practice all the time." DOWNBEAT
"Stowell played beautifully, combining his trademark creamy chord voicings with long, sinewy phrases." SEATTLE TIMES
"...darkly singing understatements..." DOWNBEAT record review
"Stowell made his electric guitar sing beautifully, displaying all the virtuosity that has brought him to the jazz world's attention in recent years." CODA MAGAZINE TORONTO
During that time, John also moved to Oregon. Paul Horn, John, David Friesen and Robin Horn were invited to perform in the Soviet Union. It was the first time in 40 years that American jazz musicians had been invited to play public performances in Russia, paving the way for many others to follow.
With bassist, David Friesen, featured on the soundtracks of two animated short films nominated for Academy Awards. (Will Vinton Studios, Portland, OR., and Bosustow Studios, L.A.)
"Through the Looking Glass", one of six albums with David Friesen, chosen one of the "Ten Best Jazz Albums of the Decade" by the LOS ANGELES EXAMINER.
Chosen "Talent Deserving Wider Recognition" by DOWNBEAT magazine's International Critic's Poll in 1978 and 1979.
Featured in Japan's SWING JOURNAL, which has the largest circulation of any jazz publication in the world.John Stowell is an in-demand teacher and clinician of jazz guitar. He has taught at the country's most prestigious schools of music, and frequently is invited to present "Artist in Residence" series.