Eric McGarry

Since moving to Philadelphia, Eric McGarry has become an in demand guitarist and composer. McGarry received his Master’s degree in Jazz Studies from The University of the Arts, where he previously earned a Bachelor’s in Guitar Performance with Honors. There he studied with prominent guitarists Dave Allen, Matt Davis, Tim Motzer, Kevin Hanson, Mike Kennedy, and Ben O’Neill.

 

In 2019, McGarry participated in the Boysie Lowery Living Jazz Residency, a selective program reserved for fifteen of the nations finest collegiate musicians. In 2022 McGarry was selected for Jazz Philadelphia's Core Cooperative, an entrepreneurship and wellness program focused on nurturing the Philadelphia jazz scene.

 

McGarry’s main creative project, the Eric McGarry Quintet focuses on performing his original compositions. They can be found regularly at venues like Chris’ Jazz Cafe, where McGarry hosted the weekly Friday night jam sessions in 2022. McGarry has also been a featured artist at the Philadelphia Free Library, and at Wilmington’s Clifford Brown Year Round: New, Creative, and Fresh. McGarry released his debut album, “As I Am, As You Were” on 1/27/2023. The record was met with positive reviews, earning a 4 out 5 stars from All about Jazz, and was played on local radio stations.

 

Outside of his own project, McGarry can be found performing with singer-songwriter Julia Pratt. As Pratt’s lead guitarist, he has played renowned venues such as the Fillmore Philly, The 9:30 Club, and World Cafe Live, as well as major festivals including Wxpn’s Xponential, and Iron Blossom. McGarry can also be heard on Pratt’s most recent release, “Family Feud,” released by RECORDS (Sony Entertainment Group).

 

McGarry also curates a monthly music series called “Free Range,” sponsored by Love City Brewing and Urban Movement Arts/Philly Music Factory/Say Yes Philly. Free Range works to create an accessible and artist focused environment, that fosters growth within the Philadelphia music scene.