Featuring Performance Guest, Renowned Italian-Born Guitarist, Composer, Musician, Peppino D’Agostino; and Interview Guest, Trailblazing Psychologist, Musician, Diplomate Quantitative EEG Neuroscientist, Dr. Barbara Minton, on The Life Changes Show, Episode 857
Interview Guest: DR. BARBARA MINTON; and Performance Guests: PEPPINO D’AGOSTINO
PEPPINO D’AGOSTINO
Peppino D’Agostino stands as one of the world’s most innovative and respected acoustic guitarists, renowned for his expressive playing, masterful compositions, and cross-cultural collaborations. A native of Italy, D’Agostino has made a profound international impact since arriving in America 40 years ago, captivating audiences with his artistry and relentless creative curiosity.
A Remarkable Musical Journey
D’Agostino’s journey began in Italy, but it was in the United States that he solidified his status as a visionary acoustic guitarist. His creative versatility has earned him global acclaim: in 2017, Guitar Player named him one of the “50 transcendent guitar superheroes of all time.” His landmark CD “Every Step of The Way” was awarded the Bronze Medal for Best Acoustic Album of All Time by Acoustic Guitar Magazine’s People’s Choice Awards. His signature Seagull acoustic guitar has also been celebrated as one of Guitar Player’s ten best signature guitars, underscoring his influence on musicians and audiences alike.
To date, Peppino has recorded 19 albums and performed in more than 35 countries, gracing prestigious concert halls and international festivals. His stage collaborations include living legends such as Larry Carlton, Eric Johnson, Tommy Emmanuel, Leo Kottke, Martin Taylor, Roland Dyens, and David Tanenbaum, demonstrating a creative generosity and musical breadth that is rare in the industry.
Master Educator and Composer
Beyond performance, D’Agostino’s passion for sharing knowledge has made him a sought-after educator and composer. He leads guitar workshops, master classes, and seminars worldwide, and his instructional methods and original compositions have been published by Truefire, Alfred Publishing, Hal Leonard, and Acoustic Guitar Magazine Books. His artistry and technical skill continue to inspire students at all levels, nurturing the next generation of acoustic guitarists.

Artistry in Service of Healing
D’Agostino’s most recent work demonstrates the healing potential of music on both a personal and collective level. His involvement in the “Calm the Storm” project with Dr. Barbara Minton is a testament to his commitment to using music as a tool for well-being. The project is informed by neurobiology and seeks to support parasympathetic activation and alleviate stress, with D’Agostino’s soulful guitar creating spaces of gentle transformation. Inspired by a desire to help chronic pain sufferers and individuals faced with anxiety and isolation, Peppino has channeled a lifetime of musical mastery and compassion into this therapeutic artistic collaboration, designed to be a companion for emotional repair and self-connection.
Speaking about his work, renowned guitarist Leo Kottke praised D’Agostino: “Peppino writes wonderful guitar pieces. He’s one of my favorite composers for this cranky instrument. Plus, he’s a tone player. I love his sound… gets the resin and the wood.” Acoustic Guitar Magazine notes his place as “one of the most capable composers among fingerstyle guitarists.”
A Visionary for Musical Wellness
Peppino D’Agostino’s artistry transcends genres, cultures, and continents. As an artist deeply committed to the healing power of music, he continues to inspire both the mind and the heart—contributing his signature sound and spirit to projects like “Calm the Storm” and beyond.
Feel Into, Find, and Follow Peppino D’Agostino’s Offerings at:
www.peppinodagostino.com or LinkTree at https://linktr.ee/peppinodagostino, and the Calm the Storm project at https://musicandhealing.net.