Michael Valeras

Mr. Valeras received a Master of Guitar Performance from the University of Massachusetts Lowell and a Bachelor of Music Education from Berklee College of Music. While living in the Boston area he spent 5 years under the tutelage of legendary music educator Charlie Banacos (Mike Stern, Wayne Krantz, Jeff Berlin) and coordinated the music program at Malden Catholic High School. In addition to teaching an extensive list of private students, Mr. Valeras also maintained an active performance schedule, which included sideman work for Larry Coryell, The Platters, The Coasters and a variety of general business groups. His original jazz/fusion project, The Mike Valeras Group, received rave reviews and performed all over New England.

Since moving to Nashville Mr. Valeras has performed with or opened for artists such as TG Sheppard, Kelly Lang, Darius Rucker, LeAnn Rimes, Lorrie Morgan, Jo Dee Messina, Tanya Tucker, Carlene Carter and others. His work for local country, pop, and rock artists extends to both the stage and studio and he continues to push the parameters of modern jazz with his group The Mike Valeras Trio. Mr.Valeras also remains committed to his role as a music educator in the Nashville community by coaching songwriters in areas of harmony, composition, ear training, and the Nashville number system. He also recently released his first book, Ballads For Solo Guitar, a collection of original arrangements of standard and popular songs.

 

Contact: michael.valeras@adjuncts.belmont.edu