Don Jansen

Since relocating from the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts to the Portland area, Don Jansen has flourished in his career as a freelance guitarist.

Don has appeared in venues such as the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall with the Oregon Symphony Orchestra ; the Mt. Hood Jazz Festival with vocalist Diane Schuur ; the Keller Auditorium with Norman Leyden and the Woody Hite Big Band . Performances also include the Waterfront Blues Festival and the Oregon Zoo Concert
series with the “Portland Jazz All Stars” featuring pianist Tom Grant.

As a theater guitarist , he has played on touring companies of New York Broadway musical productions including “Zorba the Greek”with Anthony Quin, “Hello Dolly” with Carol Channing , “Fiddler on the Roof” with Theodore Bikel, and “Man of LaMancha” with Robert Goulet. In addition, he was the guitarist for the traveling casts of Broadway’s “Showboat” and “A Chorus Line.”

Don worked for 12 years as the on call guitarist with the Oregon Symphony Orchestra , and appeared alongside film composer/ song writer Randy Newman, trumpeter Doc Sevrensen , composer / singer Anthony Newley , Broadway star Carol Lawrence, vocalist Frankie Laine and pianist Roger Williams.

As a professional freelance guitarist , Jansen is known for his versatility . For example, he played a luncheon for Luciano Pavarotti , and in the same week an evening concert with pop vocal legend Bobby Vinton. Don has over 20 years experience playing , corporate events , private parties , weddings and receptions.

Some client endorsements:

"We were impressed and pleased with Don Jansen who has played both solo and ensemble events for us at the Japanese Garden. Don's versatility in guitar styles is a plus. For our solo event he played wonderful background music, everything from ballads to jazz. In September he organized a 6-piece band for a two-hour fundraising concert. It was fabulous event. I can't be more enthusiastic about Don's talent. In addition he is personable, professional and has a great sense of humor. We will definitely use him for another event."

Maureen A. Yandle
Executive DIrector
Japanese Garden Society of Oregon

"Dear Don,

I wanted to thank you for the professional and quality performances you provided for us the last year. All guests were very complementary in their remarks about your performance. Your wide range of music selections was greatly appreciated. We look forward to having you return to Willamette View in the future to entertain us once again. I'm sure it will be a special event. Your rates for your services were well in line with other performers and the quality of your concert was a outstanding value. Please list us as a positive referral to any other organization you may work with. Many Thanks for your efforts."

Rick Royce
Director of Dining Services
Willamette View Inc.