Born: September 20, 1975 Primary Instrument: Guitar
Erik Dutko first developed a love for the guitar as a teenager. “There was always a guitar lying around the house, but it wasn't until I turned 18 that I found myself with the real desire to learn.” Shortly thereafter, his interest in music became serious enough that he decided to develop it further by attending the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. At the university, he studied with guitarists, Tom Giacobetti and Jimmy Bruno, who instilled the solid fundamentals of music. His university experience served as the perfect opportunity to meet others with a similar passion for music, like Charlie Evans , Brian Howell, Brian Woestehoff , Neil Shah , Ray McMorrin , Dan Monaghan , and Jason O'Mara .
After college, he spent some time studying and playing with guitarist, Steve Giordano, who remains an influence to this day. During this time, Erik primarily worked as a professional jazz guitarist in the Philadelphia area and as a guitar instructor at the Music Workshop, Eastern University, St. Joseph's Preparatory School, and several other schools in the area. This period of time also served as an opportunity to broaden his musical horizons, which led Erik to discover an interest in classical music and musical forms.
In 2006, Erik met his future wife, Ishbara, and decided to also pursue a nursing degree at LaSalle University. “At the end of the day, I'm a musician. I just happen to be one who moonlights as a nurse.” Erik is currently working on getting back into the recording studio and hopes to do so by the end of April. He currently resides in Philadelphia with his wife and young son, Milo.
