Joe Negri is one of the most recognized names in Pittsburgh music circles and is quite possibly one of the finest jazz guitarists in the country. He was a musical prodigy at age four and was touring nationally by the age of sixteen. He has performed with such diverse performers as Johnny Mathis; Tony Bennett; Andy Williams; Eartha Kitt; Johnny Costa; Wynton, Branford, and Ellis Marsalis; and Yo-Yo Ma.
Joe's career has spanned several decades, and he has performed in every aspect of the music business. He has appeared frequently as a guest with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and is featured on the PSO's “Cinema Serenade” recording with Itzhak Perlman and John Williams.
For more than 20 years, Joe served as “musical director” at WTAE – TV, the ABC affiliate in Pittsburgh. While at WTAE, he produced and performed on several award-winning television programs, and he received nationwide television exposure through his frequent appearances as “Handyman Negri” on PBS’ Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.
Joe has also distinguished himself as a composer. His composition "The Crossing" was premiered by The River City Brass Band, and his jazz choral work "Mass of Hope" has received critical and artistic acclaim.
Continuing to lead an extremely active life as a musician, Joe has several CDs to his credit, including Mass of Hope and a Brazilian jazz CD titled Afternoon in Rio. In 2007, he added a holiday CD, Guitars for Christmas, and his latest studio venture, Uptown Elegance, is now available both locally and nationally.
Joe continues to be active in the studio. He has recorded with singer Michael Feinstein and is currently working on his own recording project. He also shares his knowledge and experience of jazz guitar through his teaching at the University of Pittsburgh; Duquesne University; and his alma mater, Carnegie Mellon University.
Over the years, Joe has received numerous awards and honors. His most recent awards include: “Established Artist of the Year” (1999) by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, the Mellon Jazz Community Award (2000), and the coveted “Elsie Award” (2004). Duquesne University recently presented Joe with an Honorary Doctorate in Music that he really cherishes.
Joe continues to reside in his favorite city, Pittsburgh, with his wife Joni. They have three daughters and three granddaughters.
