John began playing guitar while he was in high school. He left his guitar at home after graduation when he joined the US Army. During his service in the Army, he was stationed in Germany and California and took part in Operation Desert Storm. After Desert Storm, he returned to Bradenton. He picked up his guitar again and began to play. He took his guitar to work to practice during lunch and started taking guitar lessons, studying with classical and jazz instructors.
He began playing guitar for his Church's worship team. During this time, he met his wife-to-be. Jerri. Since they married in 1993, they have continued to live in Manatee County. They have one son, David, and one granddaughter, Denver. They participate together in community volunteerism for local Churches and arts organizations.
John attended the State College of Florida to further his music education on the G.I. Bill. He met a friend in college who changed the course of his life. This friend introduced him to the Keyboards & More music store where he began teaching. While in college, John began playing for local rock bands, as well as doing studio session work for local musicians and playing classical guitar concerts.
John has been the minister of music/worship director at Gulf Gate church in Sarasota. He has served on the worship teams of North River Church and Woodland Community Church. He has also taught at The Suzuki Institute School of Music and Manatee School for the Arts. He continues to teach at the Woodland Fine Arts Academy and at his studio in Parrish at 8251 US 301 N.
John's diverse musical background has given him nearly 30 years of experience playing and teaching many types of music including Rock, Country, Jazz, Blues, Southern Gospel, Contemporary Christian, and Classical.
Contact John Phillips direct (941) 915-4694 for rates and to schedule!