John Behling

Guitarist John Behling celebrates 30+ years as  soloist of jazz standards, Brazilian guitar music, and classical repertoire, and as a sought-after sideman with a multitude of fine musicians. 

He has performed throughout the United States, playing with legends such as Jay McShann, Claude “Fiddler” Williams, James Naughton, and Patti Page, plus the award-winning jazz and Celtic fiddler Jeremy Kittel and the renowned banjoist Clarke Buehling and his ragtime orchestra, The Skirt Lifters. John is based in Chicago where he collaborates with innovative artists including Ana Everling, Marcel Bonfim, Rob Dorn, and Jarvis Raymond.

John enjoys playing for audiences large and small. He has appeared at world-renowned festivals such as the Chicago Celtic Festival and landmark venues including the Kennedy Center for the Arts. He has had the honor of performing for both President Clinton and President Obama. In addition, he plays corporate events, private events, and local clubs including Katerina’s and Phil Stefani’s 437 Rush Street. 

John is also an accomplished scholar and teacher. He has written extensively about jazz in Chicago and has presented talks on  topics including Chicago jazz, Sammy Davis, Jr., Broadway musicals, and other issues related to music and American culture. He holds a Ph.D. in ethnomusicology from the University of Michigan and an Masters of Music in jazz and classical guitar performance from the University of Arkansas. He has taught at the University of Michigan, DePaul University, the University of North Dakota, University of Illinois and Columbia College.