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My name is Jethro Mantle, although many know me as Abe. I compose, record, and perform music in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. My musical influences are many and varied and include Kieth Green, George Winston, Pink Floyd, Prince, Van Halen, Frank Zappa, Sting, U2, and so much more.
I began playing piano at the age of six. I was taught in the classical tradition, but as an adolescent I began to study the work of the late Kieth Green, a man whose piano heavy rock music changed the face of the Christian music world. I played some of his songs in church as a youth and found a freedom to improvise within the structure of his songs. From there I moved to improvising on my own and composing original songs. As a teen I played and recorded with Ivory Strings, a band formed by myself and other youngsters in Grants Pass, Oregon to play mostly original music.
As the years have gone by I have continued to write and compose original music. In 1996 I recorded and released Pieces--a piano and vocal solo project. Now I am working on the release of Ready to Wait, a solo piano EP. This CD is currently in the mastering phase, but I am hoping for an early 2009 release.
My brother Josh Mantle of Easybeats Studio and Mantle Music Legacy has built a studio and we are collaborating on projects together. I have been doing lots of songwriting lately and will be recording this music soon. The music of late has a definite gospel flair as that is the direction the good Lord has chosen to shove me. Please continue to watch for new music.
As Ready to Wait nears completion I am seeking piano venues. I would love to play in any setting that has a piano, especially if it is a baby or full grand. If you have a benefit event, I would love to play for you. Or if your church has a grand piano and an opportunity for me to bring my music, let's set it up! It's time.
