Ian Date stands tall as one of Australia's foremost guitar virtuosos, his influence resonating deeply within the realms of Australian jazz guitar. With mastery across acoustic and electric guitar,…
Ian Date stands tall as one of Australia's foremost guitar virtuosos, his influence resonating deeply within the realms of Australian jazz guitar. With mastery across acoustic and electric guitar, his musical footprint spans continents, gracing stages from Europe to Australia and beyond. Pioneering the introduction of European jazz style, notably Gypsy Jazz, to Australia, Ian's versatility extends beyond performance—he's a singer, songwriter, and composer for film and TV, leaving his mark on over 100 albums. Rooted in early American Jazz, his compositions breathe life into melodies that resonate with audiences, forging connections that transcend genres.
Ian began travelling and working in Europe in the 1980s and 90's. He lived for a year in Holland. Whilst there in 1990, he played regularly with Fapy Lafertin (gypsy maestro).
His collaborations read like a who's who of Australian jazz, sharing the stage and studio with luminaries such as James Morrison, Bob Barnard, George Washingmachine, Ian Cooper, Andy Firth, Tom Baker, Don Burrows, and George Golla. Yet, his reach extends globally, having recorded and performed alongside guitar legends Martin Taylor, Tommy Emmanuel, and Hank Marvin.
