Recognized as one of the most prolific and versatile performers on the Connecticut music scene, guitarist George Lesiw continues to captivate audiences throughout the Northeast with his electrifying performances and dynamic artistry. Lesiw fuses the true improvisational essence and language of jazz with the daring electricity of rock-fusion and the gritty fire of the blues.
Joining forces with acoustic bassist Preston Murphy and drummer Matt Keeler, George now leads a powerful new trio that brings fresh energy and nuance to his already adventurous sound. This exciting lineup showcases deep chemistry and fearless improvisation, offering listeners a dynamic live experience that blurs genre boundaries while staying rooted in the spirit of jazz.
Currently the guitarist for Eight to the Bar, George has been with the high-energy swing, jazz, and R&B band for the past three years. In 2024, the group was honored as Best Band in Connecticut by Connecticut Magazine—a testament to their outstanding musicianship and crowd-pleasing performances.
A sought-after bandleader and sideman, Lesiw brings a fiery blend of blues, funk, soul, and R&B into his sound, making him a staple in venues throughout the state and beyond. Whether performing straight-ahead jazz with his new trio, tearing through a gritty blues set with his band Black Snake Boots at Black-Eyed Sally’s in Hartford, or showcasing his original jazz fusion compositions on the main stage of the Long Beach Jazz Festival in California—Lesiw brings unmatched passion, virtuosity, and depth to every note.
George earned his Master’s degree in Music Education from Sacred Heart University in 2024, further solidifying his dual commitment to performance and music education.
His recent musical endeavors include a 12-year duo residency with Lee-Ann Lovelace at “Uptown” in Ansonia, and leading the popular monthly blues jam at Café Nine in New Haven. Past credits include lead guitarist for A Nordic Sound Jazz Orchestra (2016–2017) and finalist status with Black Snake Boots in the 2017 Connecticut Blues Challenge. Ever the musical explorer, he also produced Ta Te Ta Ta, an original album of Caribbean music by Luke Rodney.
Lesiw is the composer of three albums—Clarity, Aurora Nights, and Anuta Was Here. A graduate of Berklee College of Music and SUNY Purchase, he studied privately with jazz icon John Abercrombie, whose mentorship deeply shaped his voice as a guitarist and composer. Over the years, George has shared stages with artists like the Fabulous Thunderbirds, Roomful of Blues, and Luther “Guitar Jr.” Johnson.
From the Baked Potato in Los Angeles to The Knitting Factory in New York City, and beloved local venues like Toad’s Place and The Owl Shop in New Haven, George Lesiw continues to push musical boundaries and connect with audiences on a deeply human level.
“What I really love about playing live music is just connecting with the audience, seeing people smile,” says Lesiw. “One of my favorite things is pushing the boundaries—taking people someplace they didn’t expect the music to go.”