About Marcus Gerakos

An Eclectic Musical Career

Since earning his bachelor's degree in music from the University of California at Los Angeles in 1990, Marcus Gerakos has enjoyed an eclectic and busy career in music, from collaborations with Grammy-winning percussionist Alex Acuna to recordings with internationally known reggae artist Avion Blackmon and performances with Justo Almario and John Klemmer.

Classical Depth

He has arranged and performed some of the classical guitar's most demanding literature, including the 24 Caprices for Solo Violin by Nicolo Paganini, as well as popular songs treated with intricate counterpoint and harmonies reminiscent of pianist Bill Evans.

Jazz, Latin, and Studio Work

Marcus has performed from Canada and Mexico to Central America. He has recorded in a variety of settings, built a long list of session credits, and earned the respect of peers who know the demands of moving credibly across genres.

Recordings and Original Projects

He has earned critical praise as a solo artist, recording four albums, including The Edge Of Wonder, a duet project with woodwinds player Robert Kyle. His Beatles-centered Marmalade Skies and its predecessor As Twilight Approaches continue to anchor the catalog.

Teaching, Lecturing, and Live Series

In 2016 and 2017, Marcus lectured and performed on Paganini at UCLA, Cal Poly Pomona, Los Angeles City College, the Conservatorio De Musica, and the Universidad San Carlos De Guatemala. In 2023, his In Good Company studio series brought distinguished guest musicians into fresh collaborations. In 2024, Marcus Plays carried that range onto the stage across Hendrix, Latin jazz, Spanish guitar, Paul McCartney, American blues, and original compositions.