THE JOURNEY

Jake Fleder began his musical journey at the age of eight in New York City, taking private guitar lessons. Each month, his instructor, Jerry Otto, would introduce a new book featuring the popular songs of that time. Weekly, his assignments focused on learning to read melodies and chords, teaching him how to combine these musical elements. This crucial phase in his early development sparked a newfound ability in improvisation, setting the stage for his future as a burgeoning young musician. He acquired the essential skills needed for the role of lead guitarist, paving the way for a lifelong career as a soloist.  

After five dedicated years of practice, an unexpected opportunity arrived at his doorstep. A slightly older teenage musician from a band called The Imperials asked him to play a piece on guitar. Without hesitation, he grabbed his vintage 1950s Harmony acoustic guitar and selected Ray Charles’s iconic hit: “What I Say.” His performance secured him the gig, launching his career as a talented young musician in New York City. His ability to sing added to his appeal, and The Imperials played at numerous school dances, as well as church and synagogue gigs, further enhancing his reputation and opening up new avenues for performance.