Mila Shadel Trio - South Park Amphitheater - June 21 2024

Mila Shadel: Pittsburgh’s Rising Jazz Guitar Virtuoso
Mila Shadel is a distinguished jazz guitarist and composer from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, celebrated for her innovative approach to jazz guitar. With a sound that seamlessly integrates traditional jazz techniques with modern influences, Shadel has become a prominent figure in the local and national jazz scenes.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Mila Shadel developed a passion for music at an early age. Growing up in a musically inclined family, she was surrounded by a rich tapestry of sounds, ranging from classical compositions to contemporary jazz. Inspired by her father’s record collection and her mother’s piano playing, Mila picked up the guitar at the age of 8. Her early exposure to the works of jazz legends like Wes Montgomery, Pat Metheny, and Joe Pass played a significant role in shaping her musical direction.
Education and Training
Mila's formal music education began at the Pittsburgh Creative and Performing Arts School (CAPA), where she focused on honing her guitar skills. Recognized for her exceptional talent, she was awarded a scholarship to study jazz performance at Duquesne University. Under the mentorship of esteemed faculty, including jazz guitarist Mark Koch, Mila developed her technical proficiency and deepened her understanding of jazz theory and improvisation.
Career and Achievements
Early Career
After graduating, Mila Shadel quickly established herself in Pittsburgh’s vibrant jazz community. She began performing at local clubs and festivals, captivating audiences with her expressive playing and intricate improvisations. Her unique ability to blend lyrical phrasing with complex harmonic structures set her apart from her peers.
Collaborations and Performances
Mila’s career gained momentum as she started collaborating with notable jazz musicians, including appearances with the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra and performances alongside artists such as Sean Jones and Dwayne Dolphin. Her versatility and skill led to opportunities to play at renowned venues and festivals across the country, including the Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival, the Newport Jazz Festival, and the Blue Note in New York City.
Recordings
In 2019, Mila released her debut album, Strings of Time, which features a collection of original compositions and reimagined jazz standards. The album showcases her ability to craft intricate melodies and harmonize them with rich, textural layers. Critics praised Strings of Time for its fresh perspective on jazz guitar and its seamless integration of diverse musical influences.
Her second album, Urban Reflections, released in 2022, further cemented her reputation as a forward-thinking artist. This project explores the intersection of traditional jazz and contemporary urban soundscapes, incorporating elements of R&B, soul, and fusion. Tracks like “City Lights” and “Midnight Groove” highlight her sophisticated technique and innovative approach to composition.