J.J. Thomchick, 32, is an up and coming performer and music educator in the New York area.  Born and raised in central Pennsylvania he began playing piano at the age of 6.  Then, after gaining inspiration from his third grade teacher, who would play guitar and sing for the class, J.J. began guitar lessons at the age of 9.  J.J. played with a number of small rock, funk, and jazz ensembles through high school before attending Berklee College of Music at the age of 18.  In three years of study at Berklee he earned a degree in guitar performance, was a recipient of the Harris Stanton Award for Outstanding Musicianship, and graduated summa cum laude.  He is recognized as one of the most versatile guitarists on the scene, displaying a high proficiency in a variety of contemporary and traditional styles.  In addition to his work on guitar J.J. also plays piano professionally, often as an accompanist or in a musical theater pit.