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Photo credit: Brett Missick
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Becoming a world-renowned guitar virtuoso is no accident—it's a relentless pursuit fueled by passion, discipline, and a deep connection to the instrument. It takes more than flashy solos and fast fingers. True virtuosity blends technical mastery with emotion, creativity, and the ability to move an audience.
From countless hours of practice to a lifelong commitment to learning, virtuosos live and breathe music. They push boundaries, challenge norms, and constantly evolve. Whether performing on global stages or innovating in the studio, their artistry leaves an unmistakable mark on the music world. The journey is long, often grueling, but for those who rise to the top, it's a legacy built one note at a time.
Take, for example, Jimi Hendrix, whose revolutionary playing redefined the electric guitar and influenced generations with his fiery technique and expressive style. Or Eddie Van Halen, whose tapping technique and innovative approach to tone set new standards in rock guitar. Then there’s Steve Vai, a master of technical precision and musical storytelling, whose compositions blend virtuosity with emotional depth.
Beyond technical skill, these guitarists share an unyielding dedication to their craft and an ability to inspire audiences worldwide. Their paths weren’t easy, but their commitment and love for the guitar transformed them into legends. While reaching out to make his own mark in the music industry, we have reached out to an amazing and gifted guitar player Chris Cava. His playing style is unforgettable.
ABOUT CHRIS CAVA
Hailing from Tampa, Florida, Chris Cava is a guitar virtuoso known for blending soulful melodies with high-octane riffs that push the boundaries of modern guitar playing. With a deep-rooted passion for tone and technique, Cava has carved out a unique identity in the guitar community—bridging classic influences with a contemporary edge.
From stage performances to studio sessions, Chris brings an electrifying presence and a refined musical ear. His work spans rock, blues, and experimental genres, often showcasing both technical prowess and emotional depth. A lifelong student of music theory and gear aficionado, Cava is also a respected voice in the guitar tech world, offering insight on everything from tone shaping to instrument setup.
Whether performing with local bands or collaborating with national artists, Chris Cava continues to elevate the musical scene in Tampa and beyond—one note at a time.
INTERVIEW WITH CHRIS CAVA AND GUITAR THRILLS MAGAZINE
Guitar Thrills: When did you first pick up the guitar, and what inspired you to pursue it seriously?
Chris: I first picked up the guitar around 7-8th grade when I was 14 years old. At first it was just an elective for school, and I had no interest in pursuing it because I didn't have the patience of learning. I was impatient when I was young. One day my teacher gave me a pat on the head for learning a simple fingerpicking pattern and challenged me to learn Dust in the Wind by Kansas and so I did. I felt validated by him which encouraged me to pursue further. Maybe I pursued too far and dove into learning more complex techniques on Youtube and got into Blues from where I found Tommy Emmanuel and watched the move August Rush. From then on, I had a spark of inspiration.
Guitar Thrills: Who are your biggest guitar influences, and how have they shaped you’re playing style?
Chris: My biggest influences throughout my musical years of playing has always been players like Justin King, Michael Hedges, Tommy Emmanuel, Eric Johnson just to name a few.
Guitar Thrills: What does it mean to be a ‘guitar virtuoso’ to you personally?
Chris:I don't like calling myself a “virtuoso” personally but If I were to answer such question it would be committing all my time and dedication to my craft. Never picked up video games like most people growing up as guitar has been my #1 passion.
Guitar Thrills: Can you describe your daily practice routine? How do you balance technique, creativity, and tone? Also, what exercises do you do for your fingers to get them to move that fast?
Chris: I usually have a routine of practicing between 2-4 hours a day mostly doing guitar runs and finger exercises with my right hand and then I switch to electric guitar half-time and practice for 1-2 hours. If I have an event coming up such as a gig or studio session, I will dedicate an extra hour practicing the material. So, we are looking around 5-6 hours a day. Used to be 5-8 when I was growing up
Guitar Thrills: What has been the biggest challenge in your journey to mastering the guitar so far?
Chris: Writer's block has been a big problem for me as well as staying up with consistency with new exercises, but I try to keep pushing myself beyond limits I can't reach.
Guitar Thrills: How do you approach songwriting and composing your own music?
Chris: Listening to heavy influences and hearing other like-minded musician's ideas to help build and construct my own.
Guitar Thrills: What role does gear, and tone play in your sound, and do you have any favorite equipment?
Chris: Gear and tone are about 25 percent of the battle, but I will say every piece I own gives me new inspiration in writing. My favorite guitar is my 1998 Collings OM Brazilian that drew me closer to traditional genres of music like Bluegrass and Country. My other favorite guitar would be my Black Suhr Modern which has been a game changer for studio sessions and live performances with a band.
Guitar Thrills: Have you had any memorable performances or collaborations that pushed you to grow as a player?
Chris: Playing with local artist Shaun Hopper has been very memorable for me. Taught me a lot and to always be humble!
Guitar Thrills: How do you stay motivated during tough times or creative slumps?
Chris: Explore and go out anywhere to find influence and inspiration. Forget all about social media, personal, relationship issues and just remember your duty as a writer.
Guitar Thrills: What advice would you give to young guitarists who aspire to reach your level?
Chris: Always stay inspired and remember where you came from. Humility will get you farther than close-mindedness and stubbornness. Guitar at first can seem competitive and we all want to be the fastest or most technical player but remember that the pen is mightier than the sword. I must remind myself that every day.
Guitar Thrills: Where do you see your music and guitar career evolving over the next five years?
Chris: Becoming more established with teaching guitar to many players of all levels and writing music as I continue my journey.
Guitar Thrills: Beyond guitar playing, are there other creative outlets or passions that influence your artistry?
Chris: Skateboarding has been a big one for me as it brings me back and re centers my mind. Learning random things has always been a fun outlet for me.
Chris Cava stands at the threshold of greatness—not just as a guitar player, but as a rising voice in a new generation of virtuosos. With a blend of raw talent, relentless dedication, and a deep respect for the art of guitar, he embodies what it means to push the boundaries of modern music. As his journey unfolds, one thing is clear: Chris isn’t just chasing the spotlight—he’s crafting a legacy, one unforgettable note at a time.
“Chris Cava's innovative fretwork and soulful expression redefine what it means to be a modern guitarist—each note resonating with the passion and precision that make him a true Guitar Thrills standout.” — Guitar Thrills Magazine
