Mike Stockbridge

Mike Stockbridge is a New Hampshire–based guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, and music educator whose career spans close to thirty years of performance, recording, and teaching across New England. Known for his expressive jazz guitar work, stylistic versatility, and deep commitment to music education, he has established himself as both a respected regional artist and an influential mentor within the Northern New England music community.

Born in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, and raised in Ossipee, Stockbridge grew up in a musically rich environment shaped by a wide range of influences, from blues and rock to classical and jazz. He began studying guitar at the age of nine with noted classical guitarist Lance Gunderson, developing a strong technical foundation early on while cultivating a lasting passion for the instrument. His musical path was further shaped by formative listening experiences, including exposure to iconic rock recordings that inspired his dedication to guitar.

He went on to pursue formal training at Berklee College of Music and later earned a Bachelor of Music in Jazz and Contemporary Music from the University of Maine at Augusta. Stockbridge at one time, dedicated himself to the guitar style of Lenny Breau, finding solid mentorship through Breau's own student as well as one of his peers, Bob Thompson and Tony Gaboury, and Breau collaborator - Award winning percussionist Steve Grover. He also went on to study with jazz guitar luminaires Howard Morgen and John Stowell. This combination of rigorous jazz study and broad contemporary influence helped define a musical voice rooted in improvisation, technical fluency, and expressive nuance.

As a recording artist, Stockbridge released his self-titled debut album in 2009, followed by Ama in 2011. His work received critical recognition, with Ama helping to establish him as one of the most compelling jazz guitarists in Northern New England. His playing has been noted for its balance of sophistication and accessibility, blending modern jazz language with melodic sensitivity and strong ensemble interplay. Rooted in the post-bop tradition, his performances emphasize improvisation, communication, and musical depth.

Throughout his career, he has performed extensively across New England in a variety of settings, including jazz trios, small ensembles, and collaborative projects with regional musicians. In addition to his work in jazz, he is a versatile multi-instrumentalist whose musical range extends into rock, folk, and Americana traditions, including performances with a variety of regional acts. Beyond guitar, he is proficient on banjo, mandolin, keyboard instruments and drum set, reflecting a broad and adaptable musicianship. To further enhance his diversity Stockbridge is well versed in all aspects of music production as well. 

A defining aspect of Stockbridge’s career is his long-standing dedication to music education. With close to three decades of teaching experience, he has worked with students of all ages and abilities in both private and institutional settings. His teaching career has included positions at Phillips Exeter Academy, Concord Community Music School, Nashua Community Music School, Rivertree Arts Center, the Tony Boffa School of Contemporary Music, Robert Frost Charter School, Polaris Charter School, and The Well School. He currently serves as the Assistant Director of Music at St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire, where he contributes to curriculum development, directs ensembles, and mentors young musicians