Doug Proper has been playing and teaching the guitar in the tri-state area for almost two decades now. His strong harmonic sense and resourceful melodic phrasing make him one of the most sought-after guitarists around.
Throughout the course of his career, Doug has shared the bandstand with such prominent musicians as: DMP and Wavetone Recording artist Joe Beck, ECM recording artist John Abercrombie, recording artist and trumpet legend Lew Soloff, CMG and Big World Music recording artist Charles Blenzig, Recording Artist Jack Wilkins, Concord recording artist Ray Vega, The Legendary Saxophonist Benny Waters, GRP Recording Artist Dave Valentine, Criss Cross Recording Artist Ralph Lalama, the inimitable Billy Mitchell, Jazz Bass Legend Bill Crow, DMP/Sharp Nine Recording artist Giacomo Gates and Saxophonist Jimmy Hill to name a few.
Doug performs regularly as a solo artist as well as part of several ensembles ranging from duos to quintets with some of the most notable jazz musicians in the industry. Recently embarking on some very adventurous musical projects, one involving guitar visionary Joe Beck on Alto Guitar and drummer Gerry Fitzgerald in a trio format. Another has been a series of performances with guitar legend John Abercrombie exploring the interplay and intimacy of the guitar duo format as well as the journey into the quartet, emphasizing their contrasting styles. Most often, Doug finds himself right at home in the traditional bebop guitar/bass/drum trio featuring the areas most prominent bassists and drummers with an occasional added attraction in the addition of jazz vocalist Giacomo Gates.
