Winners of the Lifestyle Radio
Music Awards for Best New Artist of 2004 and Best Contemporary
Acoustic Album of 2005, Jennifer and Jonathan Adams create a “new
acoustic” sound with their pairing of cello, six-string
electric cello, Spanish/classical guitar, and steel string guitar.
Not only able to compel audiences with their instrumental
prowess and fusion of music styles, these artists incorporate
percussive techniques and state of the art pedals, and effects
to create a full-bodied blend. Montana Skies has an extensive
tour schedule which has taken them all across the US, Canada and
to Asia. Jonathan and Jennifer Adams are the originators of Montana
Skies. The couple met almost a decade ago while studying music
at the University of Georgia in Athens. At first the two planned
on collaborating on classical music but after a trip to the University
Library to investigate repertoire, they discovered that music
written for cello and guitar was as rare as the combination itself.
Jonathan and Jennifer were not discouraged; they began writing
their own arrangements to classics and composing music for themselves.
Not having set repertoire has given
these music artists a great freedom in their musical expression.
Their music is eclectic and fun-filled, encompassing finger-picking
to flamenco. Jonathan explains, "Throughout the years, we
have developed many of our own arrangements ranging from world
music and classical to original compositions. The fact that 'ready
made' repertoire is not available for our combination of instruments
is really what pushes us to be more creative with our music. We
love composing and arranging, and appreciate the opportunity to
present old favorites, along with newer music, to our audiences."
Montana Skies’ name is taken from one
of the first songs Jonathan composed for the group entitled “Montana
Skies”. This song was written specifically about times spent
in Montana and the joy Jonathan felt while studying guitar with
Christopher Parkening at Montana State. Jonathan and Jennifer
named themselves after this first song because it captures the
essence of the duo’s music, and marked the beginning of
their newly found sound.
The Adams' live in the Atlanta, Georgia metro
area. They maintain an active touring schedule and conduct community
and educational outreach programs in conjunction with concerts.
Montana Skies values the experience of bringing music to people
and children of all ages. The group performs in a variety of settings
from outdoor music
festivals, indoor concert halls, on the campuses of college and
universities, and community concerts. Jonathan's full length instructional
book and CD, "Getting Into Fingerstyle Guitar" was published
in 2002 by Mel-Bay Publications. Additional publications are in-the-works.
