Jackson Fretwell

Jackson Fretwell

My music is simple stuff. Anybody can sit down, look at a set of symbols and produce sounds the music represents.- Chuck Berry

Hola! I’m Jackson Fretwell, a 39-year-old passionate guitarist living in the United States but with my roots and heart firmly planted in Mexico. Growing up with the vibrant culture and rich musical heritage of Mexico has deeply influenced my approach to music, especially my love for the electric guitar.

Join EguitarMania.com as we dive into the world of guitars and grow together on this musical journey.

Biography 

I'm Jackson Fretwell, a guitarist with a unique Mexican-American heritage. My journey with the guitar started in the bustling streets of Mexico City when I was just a teenager. Moving to the United States, I carried this passion with me, allowing it to shape my identity and guide my path through music. Over the years, I've explored various genres, techniques, and styles, with a special focus on the electric guitar. My experience ranges from soulful solos to electrifying riffs, each chord telling a story of my bicultural journey.

Education and Career

My formal music education began at the Escuela Nacional de Música in Mexico City, where I first learned the fundamentals of classical guitar. Eager to expand my horizons, I moved to Seattle, Washington, to attend the University of Washington School of Music. Here, I earned a bachelor’s degree in Music Theory and Composition, with a focus on modern musical forms.

My big break came when I joined EGuitarMania.com as a blogger. Here, I leveraged my educational background and practical experience to write articles, reviews, and guides, helping others navigate the world of guitar playing. This role not only cemented my career in the music industry but also connected me with a global community of guitar lovers.

Bienvenidos and let the music begin!

Personal Life

When I'm not strumming my guitar or writing for EguitarMania.com, you can find me at Café Allegro in Seattle’s University District. This cozy coffeehouse is my sanctuary for contemplation and creativity. I frequently participate in their open-mic nights, sharing my latest compositions or just jamming with fellow musicians.

I'm also actively involved in the Seattle Guitar Circle, a community of guitarists who meet regularly to share techniques, compositions, and our love for the instrument. 

Experiences

Competition:

  • International Guitar Festival Competition : Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of participating in various guitar competitions, both in the United States and Mexico. One of my most memorable experiences was placing in the top 20 at the prestigious in Morelia, Mexico.

Experiences:

  • The Emerald City Soundoff : as a guest performer. This experience allowed me to showcase my skills in a more mainstream arena, reaching a wider audience and opening doors to new opportunities. 
  • Local band: I honed my adaptability as a musician from my early experiences performing in local bands, where I experimented with rock, jazz, and other styles. 
  • Solo work: Later, I focused on composing and producing my music. This phase was marked by the release of a couple of EPs that highlighted my skills in blending traditional guitar techniques with modern sounds.
  • Writer: I started offering guitar workshops and masterclasses, sharing my knowledge and experiences with budding guitarists. As a writer for EguitarMania.com, I've been able to further expand my reach.