Philip Hemmo studied classical guitar performance and received degrees from both the University of Arizona (B.M.) and Illinois State University (M.M.) as well as study at the Rubin Academy in Tel Aviv. He served as Instructor of Guitar at the world renowned guitar program at the University of Arizona from 1995 to 1999. He directed the guitar program at Pima Community College from 1999 until 2006. During his academic tenures he authored the textbook Beginning Classroom Guitar (Thompson Learning/Shirmer Books, 1998 1st ed; 2003 2nd ed) which is the textbook of choice at colleges across the US. He performed in recitals through-out the US and Mexico.
In 2000, he opened Southwest Guitar Studio, which is now Arizona's largest classical guitar store and school. He founded a Web site that connects local musicians called TucsonMusicians.com. His current touring band is Mozart's Sister which released their debut CD in 2007.
Phil is endorsed and performs in all of his rock projects with the fine guitars of
Quotes:
"...a remarkable concert of contemporary works...(Hemmo) captured their understated warmth and intimacy" )Arizona Daily Star 5/98)
"(Beginning Classroom Guitar) is an excellant introduction to the guitar" Arizona Daily Star (9/13/99)