Maurice Sedacca

Romantic Spanish Guitar with Bossa Nova, a little Jazz and Classical, too.

Maurice began his relationship with the guitar at the age of seven. He was inspired by the sounds of Carlos Montaya and other Flamenco greats, introduced to him by his mother, Esther Azar Sedacca, who had been a well admired vocalist herself. For the next few years he became involved with various types of music, both traditional and popular, playing solo and with local "pick-up" groups. As a teenager, Maurice found jazz to be an encompassing mode of expression and began study with the innovative jazz guitarist, Howard Morgen. Other, more traditional training includes studies with Rodrigo Riera, world-renowned classical guitarist, and at the Hunter College music department under the direction of Professor James Harrison of the Paris Conservatory. Additionally, he has had the opportunity to study Arabic music theory with Hakki Obadia which has influenced his playing of the oud, the middle-eastern "grandfather" of the guitar.

Since 1964, Maurice has played with such mentionables as Bobby Timmons, the Platters, Andy Narrell & the Steel Bandits, Ralphi Pagan, Ray Ramos y La Sonora, Scott Wilson and the Serena Dance Studios, the Frank Terris Orchestras, Eddie "The Sheik" Kochak, Souren Baronian and Gwen Cleveland and the Something Special Big Band. He also appeared on the "Emeril Live" show on Food Network Television.

Maurice is currently performing in the New York City vicinity and South Florida area in public venues and private parties. He has been appearing regularly with his Jazz Quartet at the Mardi Gras Restaurant in Forest Hills and at the Chimu in Williamsburg where the evening is highlighted by a Belly Dance floor show.