Danny Rectenwald

Danny Rectenwald is a part-time faculty member in the Guitar department at the University of Pittsburgh's Dietrich School. He is a renowned guitarist, composer, and arranger with expertise in classical, steel-string, and electric guitar performance. His career includes collaborations with prominent artists and ensembles, Emmy-nominated projects, and original compositions featured in national commercials and children's television.

Education: B.A. from Duquesne University (mentors Tom Kikta and Tim Bedner), M.M. in Classical Guitar Performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music (studying under Grammy-winning guitarist Jason Vieaux).

Research interests focus on musical performance innovation, cross-genre collaborations, and the evolution of classical guitar techniques. His work merges traditional and modern styles, evident in his solo albums Samadhi (2019) and Canyon (2022), as well as his contributions to the Emmy-nominated production Live From Nied's Hotel (2016).

He maintains an active performance schedule, appearing with artists like Robert Randolph and The Avett Brothers' Jim Avett. His music has been broadcast on major Pittsburgh radio stations including WRCT, WQED, and WDVE.

Notable achievements include world-premiere performances of operas and concertos, Grammy collaborations, and commercial compositions such as Road Song for Scott's Lawn Care's national campaign.