Chris Tondreau
Chris Tondreau writes catchy hook-filled guitar-based pop/rock tunes with memorable melodies. The most important element of a song is a melody that you will remember well enough to start running through your head at any given moment. This is exactly what Chris Tondreau aims to, and indeed, does deliver.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
I am a Guitarist/Singer/Songwriter from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. I have been playing guitar for 21 years, and have an honours degree in music from Mc Master University. I have been playing in various bands in the Hamilton area since 1987. I would describe my style as "aggressively melodic." I have studied classical guitar with world class performers such as Peter McAllister (the Wilson-McAllister Duo), and have studied guitar solo approaches and songwriting structure with Juno Award nominee Greg Fraser (Brighton Rock, Helix) I have also been taking voice lessons for the past few years with vocal coach par excellence, Edward Johnson. (He was the youngest tenor ever to join the Metropolitan Opera in NYC, and has taught Brian Vollmer from Helix. ) Edward Johnson teaches the REAL Bel-Canto vocal technique, which allows you to strengthen your voice over time - not tire it. My vocal style is similar to Goo Goo Dolls, American Hi-Fi, Treble Charger, The Pursuit of Happiness , Collective Soul, Matthew Sweet, etc. Because of my vocal style, this is also the type of music I write.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
Not yet.... want to again soon, though....
Your musical influences
My guitar influences range from Segovia to Nuno Bettencourt and Vernon Reid to Angus Young and Brian McLeod. My songwriting and vocal influences are Goo Goo Dolls, American Hi-Fi, Treble Charger, The Pursuit of Happiness , Collective Soul, Matthew Sweet, etc.
What equipment do you use?
Guitars: BC Rich, El Degas (1970's)..... Bass: Aria..... Guitar rig: Yorkville Stage 150GH head with 2x12 cabinet, ART processor..... Keys: Korg M1..... Recording: Celeron PIV 1.7Ghz computer w/512MB RAM, 40gig 7200rpm HD, M-Audio Delta 1010 sound card, Peavey TMP-1 tube preamp, Behringer 2442FX-PRO Mixer, 2-Channel Compressor/Limiter; Rode NT1 and Shure SM58 mics, Cubase SX, LM4 MarkII drum module.
Anything else?
...songs are very strong....melodies and catchy choruses. - Brian Vollmer (vocals, Helix) commenting on Chris songwriting
...let me know when ya'll have a gig in Atlanta, i want passes! - Fender via internet feedback
right off the bat my leg is pumpin up and down...cool vibe...makes me wanna get up...Hey, you guys kick ass!...'topher's got some pipes, ain't he? Steve Perry would vomit with jealousy...GREAT guitar break...doesnt over do it at all...nice and easy love it... Nice job on drums...Great drumming ...any time a guitarist can solo with just drums and bass and no rhythm guitar, you know he's gotta be good!!! Havent heard much of that since 1989. KICK AZZ!!! - various reviewers, Homerecording.com
