Jim Perona

• Jim Perona - Guitar

***INTRODUCING JIM PERONA***

My name is Jim Perona and I literally live, eat, breathe and sleep music! As Gigmasters's five-star award-winning solo classical guitarist, I want to share with you the immense power and beauty of music. As psychologist H.A. Overstreet so eloquently states, "I have my own particular sorrows, loves, delights; and you have yours. But sorrow, gladness, yearning, hope, love, belong to all of us, in all times and in all places. Music is the only means whereby we feel these emotions in their universality." This quote truly inspires me because there is nothing greater than having the musical ability to bring people together by touching their hearts and feeding their souls.

What makes me stand out from the other performers is my unique ability to take any song and arrange it for solo guitar. This means that I can accommodate ALL musical requests, making your music options virtually limitless!

Additionally, my versatile performance repertoire spans over 500 years of music covering the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical and Romantic eras as well as hits from the past 60 years. From Bach to the Beatles, I play it all. Just listen for yourself as I skillfully turn any song into an instrumental guitar piece by retaining its familiar melody and harmony while gaining a charming elegance that is beautifully suited for any occasion!


***MY MUSICAL JOURNEY***

Some may say I was born to be a musician. After all, when your first words are from a Who song, it's a pretty clear indication you're a musician in the making. To top it off even further, my four older brothers graciously passed along their musical genes to me, their youngest brother. As a child, I was completely mesmerized watching my brothers play in their bands. In fact, from as far back as I can remember, on the days they had a gig, I'd scramble to finish my homework so I could have the chance to see them perform. After being a mini-roadie for many years, I decided it was time to be a part of the action. I started taking guitar lessons and, at the ripe old age of 11, found my calling and developed a deep passion for guitar. In 2008, I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Classical Guitar Performance from Northern Illinois University, where I had the incredible opportunity to study with modern guitar virtuoso Fareed Haque, the 2009 award recipient of "Best World Guitarist" from Guitar Player Magazine. In 2010, I received my Master's Degree in Classical Guitar Performance from New England Conservatory, where I, again, had the amazing fortune of studying with world-renowned guitarist Eliot Fisk, winner of the 1980 International Guitar Competition, founder of the Boston Guitarfest and close friend and student of classical guitar great Andres Segovia. I feel so blessed to have been mentored by some of the best in the world and truly believe they have fully educated me to become one of the most versatile, accomplished guitarists around!


***THE JIM PERONA EXPERIENCE***

For the past 10 years, I have had the great honor of performing at a variety of venues and events not only across the Chicagoland area, but the Midwest as well. Below is just a sampling of the many locations I have played at.

Private, Lavish Events Located In The Heart Of Chicago:
Top Hotels: Park Hyatt, Peninsula
Restaurants: Alhambra Palace, Osteria Via Stato, Roy's Restaurant

In-Demand Talent Beyond Chicago:
St Louis, MO (Oliva On A Hill)
Des Moines, IA (Gray's Lake Overlook Terrace)
Grand Rapids, MI (Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park)
Madison, WI (Orpheum Theatre)

Popular Regular Performer At Top Suburban Hot-Spots:
The Cellar Bistro - Downtown Wheaton
Wildwood Steakhouse - Geneva

As you can see, my act is compatible with virtually every type of event. I am enthusiastically ready, willing and able to perform at any event: Weddings, cocktail hours, receptions, civil unions, rehearsal dinners, retirement home recitals, birthday parties, anniversaries, holiday parties (including Christmas & Cinco de Mayo), wine tastings, yoga classes, and more! Any time, any place, you name it and I will be there!


***TOP 10 REASONS TO HIRE JIM PERONA***

10. VOLUME CONTROL - The volume of my music is guaranteed to be loud enough to hear and enjoy, yet soft enough to have a comfortable conversation from 10 feet away!

"We were very pleased with Jim's professionalism and music repertoire. Jim arrived promptly and efficiently set-up his sleek sound system. The guests commented positively on his performance and he was open to one guest's request to do a guitar duet. The music volume was just right for the event of 30 people and provided the perfect background melody without overpowering guests' conversations." -- Araceli C, Rockford, IL, 4/10/2012

9. PORTABILITY - Just me and my guitar (and usually some amplification, too), which means I can move from room to room with plenty of style, grace and ease!

"Jim was great playing at our wedding during our cocktail hour and dinner on 10/29/11. Jim was accommodating and able to move equipment as the two parts were in separate rooms. We had about 140 people at the dinner and we have received many compliments! Jim was easy to work with during the planning process as well. Thanks Jim!" -- Karen G, Naperville, IL, 10/29/2011

8. AFFORDABLE - Say good-bye to cutting hefty checks split among quartets and big bands and hello to me, myself and I!

"It was a pleasure to work with Jim as the musician for our wedding ceremony. He was quick to respond to any communication and was willing to work with us to make our ceremony exactly as we imagined! We received multiple compliments from our guests on the ease and beauty with which Jim played. We can't say enough good things! Jim's music made our ceremony personal and intimate, and he provided everything at an affordable price!" -- Jacqui S, Milwaukee, WI, 12/3/2011

7. DEDICATED - Above and beyond service with a smile. Will do just about anything to ensure you and your loved ones have the time of your lives. The sky's the limit!

"We were extremely happy that we had Jim perform for our outdoor wedding ceremony and cocktail hour on June 4th, 2011. Before the event, he kept in touch as we worked to find the right music selections and was always willing to provide excellent recommendations. On the day itself, he arrived early and was set up well before any guests arrived. Our selections for the ceremony were cued up perfectly and were played beautifully. Even when Jim wasn't able to plug into any electricity during our cocktail hour, he simply found the best spot possible and did his best to out-compete 150 voices. He was a true professional and we highly recommend his services!!" --Rena B, Milwaukee, WI, 6/4/2011

6. PASSIONATE - Plenty of heart and drive. I respectfully treat you with the upmost care and will be there for you moment-by-moment!

"This was truly a 5 star performance - Jim played for my father's funeral last week and his performance was stunning! He was great to work with in every way - he communicated very well with me prior to the event and made sure that my expectations were met. His music was very moving for the occasion and was enjoyed by all. He was the consummate professional in every way. I highly recommend Jim Perona." -- Judy S, Crystal Lake, IL, 12/29/2011

5. HARD WORKING - Your happiness is number one in my book and I will work around the clock in order to create a flawless performance custom-made just for you!

"We hired Jim to perform during our wedding ceremony. He was fantastic. He reached out to us well before the big day and worked with us relentlessly to make sure we were going to get everything we needed from him. He even learned a couple new songs on fairly short notice that we had especially asked to be played. The day of the wedding, Jim showed up early, worked with us and our wedding coordinator on last minute changes and details and was ready to go for the ceremony. Jim is extremely talented, sounded wonderful and helped make our wedding a day we'll remember forever."--Matt M, Chicago, IL, 7/9/2011

4. RELIABLE - You can always count on me to be prepared, show up early to events and return all correspondence in a timely manner.

"Everything about working with Jim was great. He answered my emails right away, worked on special requests and was very proactive with information. The ceremony was beautiful, a little windy, but it was great and exactly what we wanted. Highly recommended." -- Michelle S, Itasca, IL, 10/15/2011

3. TRUSTWORTHY - No surprises when it comes to me! I will honestly and ethically communicate with you every step of the way!

"Jim played during our ceremony and during dinner at our wedding reception. He did such a wonderful job! Many of our guests commented on how talented he was. We gave Jim multiple musical requests for our ceremony and he was able to accommodate every one. He also kept us informed in the weeks before the wedding. I would HIGHLY recommend him to anyone!"-- Brittany S, Milwaukee, WI, 12/30/2011

2. PROFESSIONAL - My vast experience and friendly persona will erase all the stress so commonly experienced from an event.

"Jim was absolutely wonderful. He plays so beautifully. The music was a superb background to the party. Jim was also very professional. He arrived early, set up efficiently (even though we asked him to perform both outside and inside) and was very professional and accommodating throughout the evening. We would recommend Jim highly and look forward to the next occasion we can have him play. A five star experience." --Elizabeth D, La Grange, IL, 8/28/2011

1. VERSATILE/UNIQUE - You deserve nothing but the best and it's my goal to give you the highest-quality service possible. I eagerly accommodate ANY and ALL musical requests and will masterfully turn it into a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable solo guitar performance of a lifetime!

"Jim is a beautiful and extremely talented classical guitarist. He could not have made our son's rehearsal dinner any more wonderful. He added magic to our already magical evening. Thank you, Jim, for the lovely music and for being our special touch. You are 5 stars all the way!" -- Cheryl R, St. Louis, MO, 10/28/2011


***Please be sure to check out my Hall of Fame below for more glowing reviews!***

***JIM'S HALL OF FAME***

"I give Jim Perona the highest ratings possible. He showed up on time, was very flexible, dressed appropriately for the occasion and was an excellent performer. Jim entertained our guests during the cocktail hour which preceded our wedding reception. He required little direction and played a nice variety of music. I received numerous complements -some saying that he added an element of class to the event. He was a good value too. Thanks Jim, I'd definitely hire him for another occasion." -Steve T, 3/24/2012, Wedding Cocktail Hour, Kenilworth, IL

"I'm so glad Jim was able to perform on our event in such a short notice. Jim was wonderful as well his music. The party would have never been the same without him. Everyone enjoyed the music!! Thank you Jim for making our a memorable day!:)" -Francesca L, 2/4/2012, Birthday Party (Adults), Chicago, IL

"Jim did a marvelous job! All of our guests were musicians, so it was important that we have a performer that was proficient in his instrument and Jim was surely that! He played very nice selections and I had numerous positive comments from my guests about his playing. Very easy to work with! Thanks again!" -Mel (mary Ellen) S, 11/13/2011, Private Party, Naperville, IL

"Jim's music made the event very special. He was professional and really good at is craft. I would highly recommend him to others for their events." -Lisa B, 10/8/2011, Wedding Cocktail Hour, Naperville, IL

"Jim did a fantastic job at our ceremony and dinner. We would hire him again anytime! He even kept my Dad entertained in between songs! Thanks"-Carol C, 10/8/2011, Commitment Ceremony, Burr Ridge, IL

"Jim was great. He played great music and was extremely accommodating with satisfying our music requests for the wedding ceremony. He even learned 2 new songs for us!!!!" - Catherine B, 9/17/2011, Wedding Ceremony, Deer Park, IL

"He is an incredible musician and was highly professional. I only spoke with him on the phone before the big day, given the distance between our home and his, but he was very accommodating and personable so I was completely at ease. I would recommend him for any wedding or event!" -Ashley S, 9/10/2011, Wedding Ceremony, Saugatuck, MI

"Jim was wonderful and very accommodating. My guests enjoyed his music, which fit exactly what I wanted." -Elizabeth R, 7/16/2011, Wedding Cocktail Hour, Evanston, IL

"Jim did an excellent job of providing music for our wedding at the Morton Arboretum. He was very responsive and especially helpful in suggesting selections, and choosing the right music for the moment. Many of our guests commented on how lovely it was to have a solo guitar in the background, and we feel Jim was just wonderful for helping create the special mood to go with our special occasion. I would not hesitate to recommend him, or hire him again in the future!"
-Michelle K, 7/15/2011, Wedding Ceremony, Lisle, IL

"Jim Perona was perfect for my occasion. I would definitely use him again and I have already recommended him to a number of people. He was very personable, very talented, and very accommodating. He truly was a find. Every guest called the following day to thank me for the evening, and in particular for the great music. Wow." -Andrew L, 7/1/2011, Private Party, Park Ridge, IL

"I thoroughly enjoyed working with Jim to prepare the acoustic pieces for our wedding. We had a very intimate wedding of 24 and his performance made it very unique and beautiful. Jim is very professional. I found the communication to be very relaxed and easy going when explaining my thoughts and vision for our wedding. I would definitely recommended to a friend for any type of event." -Jaimie K, 6/18/2011, Wedding Ceremony, Galena, IL

"Jim was really great! He showed up on time and was willing to accommodate to last minute changes. My uncle really wanted to sing a song and he was kind to give him space and even use some of his equipment. I will definitely refer him to other friends, family, or coworkers looking for a guitarist for their wedding or event. He was a pleasure to work with and is incredibly talented. His selection of music was dead on and I left a very happy bride. Thanks!!" -Erin B, 6/11/2011, Wedding Ceremony, Brookfield, IL

"Superb performance. Highly recommended." -Josh B, 12/9/2010, Celebration, Chicago, IL

"Jim provided the perfect soundtrack to our candlelit wedding ceremony. We gave him free license to play whatever he felt was appropriate and were thrilled with the performance. Many of our friends and family members commented on how romantic the ceremony was, especially due to the beautiful classical guitar sound! He was also very personable and friendly to work with. I would definitely hire him again!" -Jennifer W, 10/10/2010, Wedding Ceremony, Skokie, IL

"Jim was great to work with, learned new music for our event, and was open and willing to do this with enthusiasm. His performance was excellent and perfect background for our Lunch Social Hour of 100 people. He was easy to communicate with before and during the event, and came early so that he was ready to go when the lunch started. Thanks, Jim for all!" -Mary J, 5/4/2012, Cinco De Mayo Party, Downers Grove, IL

"Jim was exactly what we were looking for: A talented and flexible classical guitarist. Being a guitarist myself, I had quite high standards and Jim more than exceeded them. He learned additional songs for us, was very flexible with our minor weather issue on the day, and played with absolute professionalism at our ceremony and cocktail hour. If anyone is looking for a classical guitarist for their wedding or event, Jim is your man! Thanks for everything Jim and see you for our next event!" -Simon S, 5/21/2011, Wedding Ceremony, Saugatuck, MI

***jTunes***

Further below is a sampling of my repertoire - please enjoy!


Thank you so very much for visiting my profile. It is greatly appreciated. I would love to be a part of your next event, so please feel free to contact me at any time and I will be more than happy to accommodate your every need!

• My Lady Hundson's Puffe - John Dowland
• Fantasia X - Alonso Mudarra
• Silent Night, Holy Night - Franz Gruber
• O Christmas Tree - Traditional German
• What Child is This? (Greensleeves) - Traditional English
• Joy to the World - George F. Handel
• Angels We Have Heard On Hight - Traditional Latin
• Ave Maria - Franz Schubert
• Canon in D - Johann Pachelbel
• Bridal Chorus - Richard Wagner
• Wedding March - Felix Mendelssohn
• Prelude from Cello Suite No. 1 - Johann Sebastian Bach
• Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring - J.S. Bach
• Prelude No. 1 from The Well-Tempered Clavier - J.S. Bach
• Air on the G String - J.S. Bach
• Sheep May Safely Graze - J.S. Bach
• Sleepers, Awake - J.S. Bach
• Suite BWV 995 - Prelude & Presto - J.S. Bach
• BWV 995 - Allemande - J.S. Bach
• BWV 995 - Courante - J.S. Bach
• BWV 995 - Sarabande - J.S. Bach
• BWV 995 - Gavottes I & II - J.S. Bach
• BWV 995 - Gigue - J.S. Bach
• Bourree in e minor from Suite BWV 996 - J.S. Bach
• Prelude in E Major from Suite BWV 1006a - J.S. Bach
• Prelude from Suite BWV 998 - J.S. Bach
• Romanza - Traditional
• Recuerdos de la Alhambra - Francisco Tarrega
• Estudio Brillante - Tarrega
• Capricho Arabe - Tarrega
• Adelita - Tarrega
• Asturias - Isaac Albeniz
• Tango - Albeniz
• Sevilla - Albeniz
• Romance de los Pinos - Federico Moreno Torroba
• Un Sueno en la Floresta - Agustin Barrios
• Danza Paraguaya - Barrios
• Sonata Para Guitarra I. Allegro Moderato - Antonio Jose
• Sonata Para Guitarra II. Minueto - Jose
• Sonata Para Guitarra III. Pavana Triste - Jose
• Sonata Para Guitarra IV. Final - Jose
• Canco del Lladre - Miguel Llobet
• El Colibri - Julio Sagreras
• Canarios - Gaspar Sanz
• El Humahuaqueno - Edmundo Zaldivar
• Estudio 5 - Fernando Sor
• Etudes #1, #2, #3 - Heitor Villa-Lobos
• Etude #25 - Matteo Carcassi
• Guajiras de Lucia (Flamenco) - Paco de Lucia
• Punta y Tacon (Flamenco) - Sabicas
• Farruca (Flamenco) - Traditional
• 4 Sevillanas (Flamenco) - Traditional
• Fandangos de Huelva (Flamenco) - Traditional
• Cavatina - Stanley Meyers
• Eight Days a Week - The Beatles
• All You Need Is Love - Beatles
• Here Comes the Sun - Beatles
• Here, There and Everywhere - Beatles
• While My Guitar Gently Weeps - Beatles
• With A Little Help From My Friends - Beatles
• I've Just Seen A Face - Beatles
• Something - Beatles
• Yesterday - Beatles
• Blackbird - Beatles
• Passionate Kisses - Lucinda Williams
• Tonight You Belong to Me - Patience & Prudence (made famous by Steve Martin in "The Jerk")
• Bless the Broken Road - Rascal Flatts
• Whatever It Is - Zac Brown Band
• Brown Eyed Girl - Van Morrison
• At Last - Etta James
• I Can't Help Falling In Love - Elvis
• Stand By Me - Ben E. King
• You're My Better Half - Keith Urban
• Making Memories Of Us - Keith Urban
• Feels Like Home - Chantal Kreviazuk
• Boulevard of Broken Dreams - Green Day
• Wildflowers - Tom Petty
• Sweet Child O' Mine - Guns 'n' Roses
• Hotel California - The Eagles
• Love Will Keep Us Alive - Eagles
• More Than Words - Extreme
• Don't Stop Believin' - Journey
• Happy Together - The Turtles
• Something In The Way She Moves - James Taylor
• Suicide is Painless (Theme song from M.A.S.H.) - Johnny Mandell
• Wonderful Tonight - Eric Clapton

Anniversaries, Bachelor Parties, Bachelorette Parties, Banquets, Birthday Parties, Children's Birthday Parties, Celebrations, Christenings, Christmas Parties, Church Services, Clubs, Community Events, Conventions, Corporate Functions, Dinner Dances, Events, Festivals, Fund Raisers, Funerals, Graduation Parties, Grand Openings, Picnic, Private Parties, Proms, Restaurants, Sweet 16 Parties, Weddings, Wedding Ceremonies, Wedding Cocktail Hours, Wedding Receptions...and more.

• Jim provided the perfect soundtrack to our candlelit wedding ceremony. We gave him free license to play whatever he felt was appropriate and were thrilled with the performance. Many of our friends and family members commented on how romantic the ceremony was, especially due to the beautiful classical guitar sound! He was also very personable and friendly to work with. I would definitely hire him again! -- Jennifer W, Skokie, IL, 10/10/2010
• Superb performance. Highly recommended. -- Josh B, Chicago, IL, 12/9/2010
• We were extremely happy that we had Jim perform for our outdoor wedding ceremony and cocktail hour on June 4th, 2011. Before the event he kept in touch as we worked to find the right music selections and was always willing to provide excellent recommendations. On the day itself he arrived early and was set up well before any guests arrived. Our selections for the ceremony were cued up perfectly and were played beautifully. Even when Jim wasn't able to plug into any electricity during our cocktail hour, he simply found the best spot possible and did his best to out-compete 150 voices. He was a true professional and we highly recommend his services!! -- René B, Milwaukee, WI, 6/4/2011
• Jim was great. He played great music and was extremely accomodating with satisfying our music requests for the wedding ceremony. He even learned 2 new songs for us!!!! -- Catherine B, Deer Park, IL, 9/17/2011
• Jim did a fantastic job at our ceremony and dinner. We would hire him again anytime! He even kept my Dad entertained in between songs! Thanks -- Carol C, Burr Ridge, IL, 10/8/2011
• Jim's music made the event very special. He was professional and really good at is craft. I would highly recommend him to others for their events. -- Lisa B, Naperville, IL, 10/8/2011
• Everything about working with Jim was great. He answered my emails right away, worked on special requests, was very proactive with information. The ceremony was beautiful, a little windy, but it was great and exactly what we wanted. Highly recommended. -- Michelle S, Itasca, IL, 10/15/2011
• Jim is a beautiful and extremely talented classical guitarist. He could not have made our sons rehearsal dinner any more wonderful. He addded magic to our already magical evening. Thank you Jim for the lovely music and for being our special touch Cheryl Roth You are 5 star all the way -- Cheryl R, St Louis, MO, 10/28/2011
• Jim was great playing at our wedding during our cocktail hour and dinner on 10/29/11. Jim was accomodating and able to move equipment as the two parts were in separate rooms. We had about 140 people at the dinner and we have received many compliments! Jim was easy to work with during the planning process as well. Thanks Jim! -- Karen G, Naperville, IL, 10/29/2011
• Jim did a marvelous job! All of our guests were musicians, so it was important that we have a performer that was proficient in his instrument and Jim was surely that! He played very nice selections and I had numerous positive comments from my guests about his playing. Very easy to work with! Thanks again! -- Mel (mary Ellen) S, Naperville, IL, 11/13/2011
• It was a pleasure to work with Jim as the musician for our wedding ceremony. He was quick to respond to any communication and was willing to work with us to make our ceremony exactly as we imagined! We received multiple compliments from our guests on the ease and beauty with which Jim played. We can say enough good things! Jim's music made our ceremony personal and intimate, and he provided everything at an affordable price! -- Jacqui S, Milwaukee, WI, 12/3/2011
• This was truly a 5 star performance - Jim played for my father's funeral last week and his performance was stunning! He was great to work with in every way - he communicated very well with me prior to the event and made sure that my expectations were met. His music was very moving for the occasion and was enjoyed by all. He was the consummate professional in every way. I highly recommend Jim Perona. -- Judy S, Crystal Lake, IL, 12/29/2011
• Jim played during our ceremony and during dinner at our wedding reception. He did such a wonderful job! Many of our guests commented on how talented he was. We gave Jim multiple musical requests for our ceremony and he was able to accomadate every one. He also kept us informed in the weeks before the wedding. I would HIGHLY reccomend him to anyone! -- Brittany S, Milwaukee, WI, 12/30/2011
• I'm so glad Jim was able to perform on our event in such a short notice. Jim was wonderful as well his music. The party would have never been the same without him. Everyone enjoyed the music!! Thank you Jim for making our a memorable day!:) -- Francesca L, Chicago, IL, 2/4/2012
• I give Jim Perona the highest ratings possible. He showed up on time, was very flexible, dressed appropriately for the occasion and was an excellent performer. Jim entertained our guests during the cocktail hour which preceeded our wedding reception. He required little direction and played a nice variety of music. I received numerous complements -some saying that he added an element of class to the event. He was a good value too. Thanks Jim, I'd definately hire him for anothe occasion. -- Steve T, Kenilworth, IL, 3/24/2012
• We were very pleased with Jim's professionalism and music repertoire. Jim arrived promptly and efficiently setup his sleek sound system. The guests commented positively on his performance and he was open to one guest's request to do a guitar duet. The music volume was just right for the event of 30 people and provided the perfect background melody without overpowering guests' conversations. -- Araceli C, Rockford, IL, 4/10/2012
• Jim was great to work with, learned new music for our event, and was open and willing to do this with enthusiasm. His performance was excellent and perfect background for our Lunch Social Hour of 100 people. He was easy to communicate with before and during the event, and came early so that he was ready to go when the lunch started. Thanks, Jim for all! -- Mary J, Downers Grove, IL, 5/4/2012

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