Guitar legend Steve Vai has checked in with the following message:

"Hey Folks,

I’m often asked who is my favorite new young guitar player. Well, here he is: Daniele Gottardo. 

He’s Italian and I have been following him for quite some time now. He has an elegant touch, stunning intonation, innovational style and he honors the melody. Enjoy, and check out his new record here for a real treat."

For information on Gottardo check out his official Facebook page here.

Vai Academy 2015 - All About The Guitar, the ultimate guitar experience music camp, was held in Vail, Colorado August 2nd - 6th. Vai has checked in with the following recap of the experience:

"Hey folks,

I’m just returning back to some studio normalcy after my extended Colorado extravaganza.  The Vai Academy camp this year was a real highlight. I feel so fortunate and grateful to have the opportunity to have these camps. I’ve read much of the feedback from the attendees and found them to be both uplifting and informative.

I think my favorite part of the camp is when I get to play with the campers…such a diverse group of listeners and players, and it’s always a treat to get into their inner ear on a one-on-one basis, and find some cool notes together.

I can’t thank the staff, band, and campers enough. This was a wonderful life experience, and I’m looking forward to the next one. Having said that, I think the next one might be in January 2017 because it looks like I’ll be on tour most of next year and August is a hefty load. Things could change but please keep a close eye on Vai Academy announcements.

We will continue to find ways of improving the Vai Academy and offering a life-enriching experience for all who attend. The Class of 2014 at Vai Academy and I recoreded a song and it will be released soon, with all proceeds going to The Make A Noise Foundation.

I’m thinking that the next camp will focus more on finding your inner note, your unique voice on the instrument. I want to re-introduce the 10-Hour Workout with classes that go deeper into technique, creating effective practice routines and communicating with other musicians. Haven’t thought of a name yet but it’s brewing."

Deep gratitude,
s

Back in April, Vai released  a video for the song “The Story Of Light” from the Stillness In Motion DVD. This selection opens The Space Between The Notes – a fascinating tour diary and video montage of life on the road with Vai and the band.

Vai states: “This is the piece that took the most time and the one I’m most happy with.”

An exclusive full performance of guitar legend Steve Vai's "Weeping China Doll" from the 2DVD release, Stillness In Motion: Vai Live In L.A. can be viewed below:

The double album and DVD, was released April 7 through Sony Music Entertainment and Legacy Recordings, were recorded October 12, 2012, at L.A.’s Club Nokia. It was the 49th show from Vai’s Story of Light World Tour.