Vito Petroccitto has strong roots in music. Fathered by a musical legend in his own right, Vito's life has centered around music and entertaining since his beginning. Raised by a gigging dad, becoming a musician seemed a natural career choice; a road that he has proudly taken.
Currently, Vito still fronts the band Four Guys in Disguise on occasion,(which he co-founded in 1989) a collection of talented musicians who are recognized in the Hudson Valley region as areas finest.
Vito boasts performances with musicians such as:
Merl Saunders, Tony Levin, Peter Levin, Jerry Marotta, Joe Brouchard, John Platania, Tommy Byrnes, Pete Seeger, Buddy Cage, John Hall and Larry Hoppen, Freebo, Severin Browne, Penny Nichols, Ritt Henn, and many more.
Vito has toured nationally and internationally with Sloan Wainwright, Professor Louie and the Cromatix, and David Roth.
Together, Four Guys has also provided opening acts for Eddie Money, The Doobie Brothers, Orleans, The Rascals, The Chris Barrons Band (Lead Vocalist/Spin Doctors), and Deep Banana Blackout among others.
Vito’s versatility in entertainment expands to include radio and television experience. He has been writing and performing parodies in conjunction with FM 101.5 WPDH and on a solo basis for over twenty five years, cracking up listeners in the tri-state area with his unique style. Vito is a talented storyteller, incorporating musical genius to create a perfect blend of lyric and melody.
A fine example would include The Yankee Song, a musical tribute co-written by Vito and members of the WPDH morning show in preview of the Yanks 1998 championship season. Mark Cooper and Mike Colvin’s clever lyrics in combination with Vito’s musical vision, created a song that sparked pride in Yankee fans of all ages and struck a chord in the players as well. The Yankee Song could be heard in the Yanks clubhouse, radio stations from Albany to Long Island, and everywhere in between. The song still gets played during batting practice now and again.
Its notoriety peaked the interest of Al Trautwig, of MSG Network as well as WFAN and WPLJs Scott and Todd in New York City. The song is alive and well and is often requested by Vito’s audience during his live performances everywhere.
The self proclaimed, greatest guitar player in the world has been making music for over 25 years. His comedic antics and mind-blowing solos have created a one of a kind act that keeps audiences begging for more. Known for his feel good approach to entertainment, he thrills lay people and professionals alike.
Vito’s expansive musical career has included Four Guys CDs Featuring Johnny Philibuster, Live Tracks, I Am America and his latest solo efforts The Blare Horse Project featuring some of his finest parody work to date, and the Yankee Song single CD released in 2004. He has also contributed to a number of other projects, including WPDH and WPYXs parody compilations, and session work for a number of talented artists. Vito recently appeared on David Roth's "Think Twice" double CD. Vito is currently working on his first solo effort, which is entitled, En Vito Veritas, and a brand new CD project with the "Four Guys in Disguise" (2009 release).
Some events and venues Vito has performed:
The Mid Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie, NY,
Bodles Opera House in Chester, NY,
The Chance in Poughkeepsie, NY,
The Joyous Lake in Woodstock,
The Colony Cafe in Woodstock
Morning Show with Gattine and Franz WDST 100.1 Radio Woodstock
Waking up with the Wolf morning show on FM 106.5 WPYX Albany, NY
The Cooper and Tobin Show on FM 101.5 WPDH Poughkeepsie
Poughkeepsie Live of Time Warner Cable
The Studio Diner TV show, WRNN of Kingston
The Tom and Bob show (in syndication)
The Big Show w/ Scott and Todd in NYC
Various appearances on Ritt Henn's "A Man, a Bass, and a Box of Stuff " (Manhattan Neighborhood Network, Chan.56 in NYC)
The Emelin Theatre in Mamaroneck, NY (with Penny Nichols at Sloan Wainwright's Christmas Show) 2002.
First Encounter Coffeehouse in Eastham, MA (w/David Roth)
Kulaks Woodshed in North Hollywood, CA
(Solo cameo Performance w/Freebo)2003.
Mini tours w/David Roth throughout MD, PA, NJ, MA,VA, and NY. Tour included the infamous Panzer House Concert series in November, 2003.
On Staff at Summersongs and Wintersongs.
Sloan Wainwright's "Spring Fling" Tour Florida (April 2005)
Sloan Wainwright's "Spring Fling" Tour Florida (April 2006)
Rick Danko Tribute Concert in Simcoe Ontario (summer 06)
Toledo "Ribs on the River" Festival w/Professor Louie and the Cromatix (summer 06)
The Makor (Manhattan)
The C Note (East Village)
Nokia Theater (Time Square)
Festivals:
Stan Roger's Folk Festival , Canso Nova Scotia Canada
w/ Sloan Wainwright July 4th weekend 2004
Harvestfest 1997-2006
Hempsplash 1999 and 2000
Recent Credits include:
Voted #`1 as Solo Performer to keep an eye on, George Fletchers Rhythm and News Magazine 2000.
"Four Guys In Disguise" voted #1 band several years running in the Poughkeepsie Journal's "Best of the Hudson Valley".
Appeared in Bill Moyers PBS TV documentary Americas First River in spring of 2002. Performed a Carano/Carano/Petroccitto composition, The Breakfast Song.
Played the role of Mattress Man in the Fishkill Mattress Factory Outlet (now the Dormia Clearance Center) TV commercials.
Also wrote the "Mattress Man” theme song/jingle.
Played the Bumble Bee/Street reporter in TV Commercials for the Bee Line Bus Co. in Westchester.
Performed at the Interpay (4th largest payroll company in the USA) National Sales Conference in Warwick, RI, November, 2002.
Other TV work includes commercials for the Croton Auto Park and most recent are some spots for Healy Chevrolet.
Guest appearance on Tom Boyd's "Rock n Roots" web radio show Nov, 06.
What some folks are saying about Vito:
Versatitility may be something of an overused word in describing musicians. But when it applies, it applies. I've seen Vito Petrocitto play in so many different contexts that it's almost dizzying. He can rock out with Four Guys In Disguise, provide expert back up for artists like Sloan Wainwright, David Roth, Professor Louie and Eric Garrison. Heck, even I've benefitted from his skilled musicianship when he provided an off-the-cuff arrangement for a tune I did at a library fundraiser. But it would never suffice to call Vito a "Jack of All Trades--or All Genres." He's more than that. Vito brings a level of commitment to whatever project he's involved in that I've seldom encountered in other artists. When he rocks, he rocks hard. There's no one more entertaining. When he does his solo act, he can be equally engaging, but he also brings a level of skill and genuine feeling to his performances that might surprise at first--but on further reflection, one realizes it's all part of the package. And the guitar work! I'm always telling other fans, "Yes, enjoy the humor, the stage presence and the good timey material, but every once in a while, just close your eyes, and listen to him play. You'll hear a whole new dimension to his work. And you'll come away suitably impressed."
Greg Callahan, Director (and Music Programmer)
Hyde Park Free Library
Vito has been a partner of InterPay for the past year. He’s made some hilarious parody songs for special corporate promotions that we’ve done, and most recently he performed at our National Sales Conference dinner. His flexibility, timing, vocals and comedic talent are incredible. He had the large audience laughing and engaged in a way that few performers can accomplish. If I had to choose one word for working with Vito it would be Awesome!
Curt Raffi
Director of Marketing
InterPay, Inc.
Mansfield, Mass
"Vito is an extraordinary guitarist...he understands when it is time to
lead...and when it is time to follow.....when it is time to play trash..and
when it is time to play sweetly...
Vito Petroccitto is one of those Genius guitar players you find every one
hundred years or so."
Stan Beinstein
100.1 WDST, Radio Woodstock, NY
Hey Vito,
I just wanted to thank you personally for playing along with me on my coffee house song and the student concert. I never realized until you came to Florida how accomplished you are as a singer, particularly as a harmony singer. Your contributions on "Love and Affection" in the student show helped me fulfill a dream, to perform one of my songs the way I really wanted to perform it, surrounded by great musicians.
I also want to thank you for your help in learning more about guitar lead playing and how to be a better guitar teacher. It's a goal I'm working on.
You're the best!
Your friend and mine,
alan ross haynes
redneck leftist at-large
(Summersongs Alumni)
Hey Vito,
You did a great job today. Theory is not easy
material to teach (or understand) but you organized & taught it in a
meaningful way. I'm not sure I remember or understand everything you
covered, but I learned a lot. I think a person absorbs theory a bit
at a time and you can never be overexposed to it. Everybody stayed up
with you and that's a sure sign of a good teacher.
Thanks,
Connie
Thanks for the great workshop Vito! I'm still digesting all that I've learned. Putting all this together on the fret board is going to be fun and challenging. I would love to take lessons if you'll take me on as a student.
Thanks again,
Mark
Hi everyone,
Just a friendly reminder. If you are in the Hudson Valley this Saturday, check out our proud papa playing the Hyde Park Library this weekend. You are in for some fun.
Vito has been giving guitar workshops in his fairly brand new studio. They have been very helpful and informative. He is sure helping me become a better guitar player. Hey, maybe some day I will finally be playing some lead, if I do some real practicing. If you can make his workshops, they are well worth it.
The Best to All,
Janie
Hey Man,
I just wanted to say thank you again for a great night. You really went the extra 10 miles for us by giving us a great seminar and then getting up there with us at the blues jam and hanging out. That was a total blast!
I'm working with the tracks from the CD you gave us so I hope to sharpen my skills and maybe make this a repeatable thing (open mike).
Please keep me in mind for any furture seminars and, if you get time, I'll probably be up for a lesson or two in the future.
Again many thanks.
Mark
Currently, Vito still fronts the band Four Guys in Disguise on occasion,(which he co-founded in 1989) a collection of talented musicians who are recognized in the Hudson Valley region as areas finest.
Vito boasts performances with musicians such as:
Merl Saunders, Tony Levin, Peter Levin, Jerry Marotta, Joe Brouchard, John Platania, Tommy Byrnes, Pete Seeger, Buddy Cage, John Hall and Larry Hoppen, Freebo, Severin Browne, Penny Nichols, Ritt Henn, and many more.
Vito has toured nationally and internationally with Sloan Wainwright, Professor Louie and the Cromatix, and David Roth.
Together, Four Guys has also provided opening acts for Eddie Money, The Doobie Brothers, Orleans, The Rascals, The Chris Barrons Band (Lead Vocalist/Spin Doctors), and Deep Banana Blackout among others.
Vito’s versatility in entertainment expands to include radio and television experience. He has been writing and performing parodies in conjunction with FM 101.5 WPDH and on a solo basis for over twenty five years, cracking up listeners in the tri-state area with his unique style. Vito is a talented storyteller, incorporating musical genius to create a perfect blend of lyric and melody.
A fine example would include The Yankee Song, a musical tribute co-written by Vito and members of the WPDH morning show in preview of the Yanks 1998 championship season. Mark Cooper and Mike Colvin’s clever lyrics in combination with Vito’s musical vision, created a song that sparked pride in Yankee fans of all ages and struck a chord in the players as well. The Yankee Song could be heard in the Yanks clubhouse, radio stations from Albany to Long Island, and everywhere in between. The song still gets played during batting practice now and again.
Its notoriety peaked the interest of Al Trautwig, of MSG Network as well as WFAN and WPLJs Scott and Todd in New York City. The song is alive and well and is often requested by Vito’s audience during his live performances everywhere.
The self proclaimed, greatest guitar player in the world has been making music for over 25 years. His comedic antics and mind-blowing solos have created a one of a kind act that keeps audiences begging for more. Known for his feel good approach to entertainment, he thrills lay people and professionals alike.
Vito’s expansive musical career has included Four Guys CDs Featuring Johnny Philibuster, Live Tracks, I Am America and his latest solo efforts The Blare Horse Project featuring some of his finest parody work to date, and the Yankee Song single CD released in 2004. He has also contributed to a number of other projects, including WPDH and WPYXs parody compilations, and session work for a number of talented artists. Vito recently appeared on David Roth's "Think Twice" double CD. Vito is currently working on his first solo effort, which is entitled, En Vito Veritas, and a brand new CD project with the "Four Guys in Disguise" (2009 release).
Some events and venues Vito has performed:
The Mid Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie, NY,
Bodles Opera House in Chester, NY,
The Chance in Poughkeepsie, NY,
The Joyous Lake in Woodstock,
The Colony Cafe in Woodstock
Morning Show with Gattine and Franz WDST 100.1 Radio Woodstock
Waking up with the Wolf morning show on FM 106.5 WPYX Albany, NY
The Cooper and Tobin Show on FM 101.5 WPDH Poughkeepsie
Poughkeepsie Live of Time Warner Cable
The Studio Diner TV show, WRNN of Kingston
The Tom and Bob show (in syndication)
The Big Show w/ Scott and Todd in NYC
Various appearances on Ritt Henn's "A Man, a Bass, and a Box of Stuff " (Manhattan Neighborhood Network, Chan.56 in NYC)
The Emelin Theatre in Mamaroneck, NY (with Penny Nichols at Sloan Wainwright's Christmas Show) 2002.
First Encounter Coffeehouse in Eastham, MA (w/David Roth)
Kulaks Woodshed in North Hollywood, CA
(Solo cameo Performance w/Freebo)2003.
Mini tours w/David Roth throughout MD, PA, NJ, MA,VA, and NY. Tour included the infamous Panzer House Concert series in November, 2003.
On Staff at Summersongs and Wintersongs.
Sloan Wainwright's "Spring Fling" Tour Florida (April 2005)
Sloan Wainwright's "Spring Fling" Tour Florida (April 2006)
Rick Danko Tribute Concert in Simcoe Ontario (summer 06)
Toledo "Ribs on the River" Festival w/Professor Louie and the Cromatix (summer 06)
The Makor (Manhattan)
The C Note (East Village)
Nokia Theater (Time Square)
Festivals:
Stan Roger's Folk Festival , Canso Nova Scotia Canada
w/ Sloan Wainwright July 4th weekend 2004
Harvestfest 1997-2006
Hempsplash 1999 and 2000
Recent Credits include:
Voted #`1 as Solo Performer to keep an eye on, George Fletchers Rhythm and News Magazine 2000.
"Four Guys In Disguise" voted #1 band several years running in the Poughkeepsie Journal's "Best of the Hudson Valley".
Appeared in Bill Moyers PBS TV documentary Americas First River in spring of 2002. Performed a Carano/Carano/Petroccitto composition, The Breakfast Song.
Played the role of Mattress Man in the Fishkill Mattress Factory Outlet (now the Dormia Clearance Center) TV commercials.
Also wrote the "Mattress Man” theme song/jingle.
Played the Bumble Bee/Street reporter in TV Commercials for the Bee Line Bus Co. in Westchester.
Performed at the Interpay (4th largest payroll company in the USA) National Sales Conference in Warwick, RI, November, 2002.
Other TV work includes commercials for the Croton Auto Park and most recent are some spots for Healy Chevrolet.
Guest appearance on Tom Boyd's "Rock n Roots" web radio show Nov, 06.
What some folks are saying about Vito:
Versatitility may be something of an overused word in describing musicians. But when it applies, it applies. I've seen Vito Petrocitto play in so many different contexts that it's almost dizzying. He can rock out with Four Guys In Disguise, provide expert back up for artists like Sloan Wainwright, David Roth, Professor Louie and Eric Garrison. Heck, even I've benefitted from his skilled musicianship when he provided an off-the-cuff arrangement for a tune I did at a library fundraiser. But it would never suffice to call Vito a "Jack of All Trades--or All Genres." He's more than that. Vito brings a level of commitment to whatever project he's involved in that I've seldom encountered in other artists. When he rocks, he rocks hard. There's no one more entertaining. When he does his solo act, he can be equally engaging, but he also brings a level of skill and genuine feeling to his performances that might surprise at first--but on further reflection, one realizes it's all part of the package. And the guitar work! I'm always telling other fans, "Yes, enjoy the humor, the stage presence and the good timey material, but every once in a while, just close your eyes, and listen to him play. You'll hear a whole new dimension to his work. And you'll come away suitably impressed."
Greg Callahan, Director (and Music Programmer)
Hyde Park Free Library
Vito has been a partner of InterPay for the past year. He’s made some hilarious parody songs for special corporate promotions that we’ve done, and most recently he performed at our National Sales Conference dinner. His flexibility, timing, vocals and comedic talent are incredible. He had the large audience laughing and engaged in a way that few performers can accomplish. If I had to choose one word for working with Vito it would be Awesome!
Curt Raffi
Director of Marketing
InterPay, Inc.
Mansfield, Mass
"Vito is an extraordinary guitarist...he understands when it is time to
lead...and when it is time to follow.....when it is time to play trash..and
when it is time to play sweetly...
Vito Petroccitto is one of those Genius guitar players you find every one
hundred years or so."
Stan Beinstein
100.1 WDST, Radio Woodstock, NY
Hey Vito,
I just wanted to thank you personally for playing along with me on my coffee house song and the student concert. I never realized until you came to Florida how accomplished you are as a singer, particularly as a harmony singer. Your contributions on "Love and Affection" in the student show helped me fulfill a dream, to perform one of my songs the way I really wanted to perform it, surrounded by great musicians.
I also want to thank you for your help in learning more about guitar lead playing and how to be a better guitar teacher. It's a goal I'm working on.
You're the best!
Your friend and mine,
alan ross haynes
redneck leftist at-large
(Summersongs Alumni)
Hey Vito,
You did a great job today. Theory is not easy
material to teach (or understand) but you organized & taught it in a
meaningful way. I'm not sure I remember or understand everything you
covered, but I learned a lot. I think a person absorbs theory a bit
at a time and you can never be overexposed to it. Everybody stayed up
with you and that's a sure sign of a good teacher.
Thanks,
Connie
Thanks for the great workshop Vito! I'm still digesting all that I've learned. Putting all this together on the fret board is going to be fun and challenging. I would love to take lessons if you'll take me on as a student.
Thanks again,
Mark
Hi everyone,
Just a friendly reminder. If you are in the Hudson Valley this Saturday, check out our proud papa playing the Hyde Park Library this weekend. You are in for some fun.
Vito has been giving guitar workshops in his fairly brand new studio. They have been very helpful and informative. He is sure helping me become a better guitar player. Hey, maybe some day I will finally be playing some lead, if I do some real practicing. If you can make his workshops, they are well worth it.
The Best to All,
Janie
Hey Man,
I just wanted to say thank you again for a great night. You really went the extra 10 miles for us by giving us a great seminar and then getting up there with us at the blues jam and hanging out. That was a total blast!
I'm working with the tracks from the CD you gave us so I hope to sharpen my skills and maybe make this a repeatable thing (open mike).
Please keep me in mind for any furture seminars and, if you get time, I'll probably be up for a lesson or two in the future.
Again many thanks.
Mark
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