Dave Paris

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, guitarist Dave Paris may not exactly be a household name, but his musical contributions have been part of national and international projects, and his reputation as a rising-star guitar player is spreading quickly. Whether it's internet rock radio, a folk program on an AM station in South Dakota, a new country single garnishing national airplay, background music pumping up a crowd at a roller derby event, a symphonic rock Christmas single, or hard rock Christian stations in Europe, These are but a few places his versatility has been utilized, and his guitar playing and writing style fit right in.
Dave's live resume is equally impressive, making him the go-to guitarist for many stage opportunities. He's played in front of a string orchestra as part of Diana Upton-Hill's Christmas concert arena series, and has been called into quieter Sunday morning services and retirement facilities with his expressive acoustic guitar voicings. In his musical history, Dave has rocked the stage opening for acts like Bride and Disciple, stood alone with an acoustic guitar at numerous coffeehouses, and warmed-up the crowd for an evening of smooth jazz featuring saxophonist Walter Beasley.
Paris' personal quest for musical excellence has taken him coast to coast. His studies at Hollywood's Guitar Institute of Technology in Los Angeles and at Paul Gilbert's Music Camp in upstate New York placed him in the midst of many well-known guitar heroes including Tony MacAlpine, Paul Gilbert, Steve Hunter, Dan Gilbert, and Guthrie Govan.
With a "pay it forward" attitude, Dave utilizes his education and talent when teaching private lessons or guitar/music workshops and clinics. Dave's passion for sharing and interacting with other players brings him into youth groups, clubs, and festivals to talk shop with up-coming players and students in an effort to inspire and teach. He is also actively involved in a local songwriters group and has collaborated with artists who have performed his contributions at stadium events.