EP 93: From Switzerland to Smooth Jazz: The Fabio Mignola Story

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I take a virtual trip to Switzerland with internationally acclaimed guitarist Fabio Mignola. From the accordion at age seven to classical guitar, and eventually to smooth jazz, Fabio's journey is as melodic and diverse as the music he creates. Trained in classical music but inspired by artists like Pat Metheny, Jimi Hendrix, and Carlos Santana, Fabio carved out his own space blending Latin, Brazilian, and American influences.

We talk about what it means to make jazz in a country without smooth jazz clubs, and how digital platforms helped his music reach American radio waves—something he never expected. Fabio also shares how collaboration with musicians like Rock Hendricks and Elena Martynova was made possible through technology, and why he's now focused solely on creating, not teaching.

Fabio opens up about the evolution of his craft, his new passion for piano and the hang drum, and his latest Brazilian-influenced project featuring tenor vocals and saxophone. He explains why he doesn't revisit his published recordings, and how he trusts the audience to be the final judges of his sound. For anyone wondering how music can transcend borders and genres, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Connect with Fabio: http://www.fabiomignola.com/