From jazz guitarist to Army Captain to Corporate Executive, Howard Paul is a man of many talents. A gifted musician and business leader, he has for years maintained dual careers in music and corporate America. As a Captain in the US Army (1986-1995) and executive for Chatham Steel (1996-2006), he has shown a tremendous capacity in operations, logistics, and strategic planning. Musically, he has led his own trio and quartet since 1992, working regularly with bassist/jazz legend Ben Tucker. A recurring performer in Savannah’s annual jazz and music festivals, he hosts the house band at well-respected The Jazz Corner in Hilton Head, where he serves on the advisory board.
His association with Bob Benedetto began in 1996 when he ordered his first custom guitar. In 1999, be began co-producing, with Cindy Benedetto, the Benedetto Players in Concert Series.
In April, 2006, Howard was named President of Benedetto Guitars, which will open a facility in Savannah later this year. With continued production of acclaimed models including the Manhattan, he will expand the line to include affordable, professional instruments. Likewise, he will be pivotal in the company’s participation in both the business and cultural communities.
“I have spent my entire adult life burning the candle at both ends while pursuing simultaneous careers in jazz guitar and business. Joining forces with Bob Benedetto combines everything I love. This is better than winning the lottery!”
Born in Petersburg, Virginia, November 15, 1960, he cut his teeth in the music-rich Atlantic City, New Jersey area (where the family moved in 1963). At age four, he received his first guitar, began lessons at age six with jazz guitarist Johnny Martezia and by 13 was performing professionally (including regular gigs at the famed Steel Pier.)
Left: Atlantic City, 1964. Right: As a teenager, 1973
A 1984 graduate of the University of North Carolina-Greensboro (with a degree in Political Science), he enlisted in the Army in 1986, rising to the rank of captain and receiving numerous military career awards. During his tenure, which included assignments to Desert Storm and Restore Hope (Somalia), he continued performing jazz in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and throughout Europe.
His music credits include performances with the Caesar’s Atlantic City Casino House Orchestra, The Juilliard Jazz Ensemble, The Bert Massengale Orchestra, the U.S. Army Band-Europe, the Savannah Symphony Pops Orchestra and the Coastal Jazz All Stars. Since 1998, he has frequently appeared with jazz guitar legends Jimmy Bruno, Howard Alden, Jack Wilkins, Joe Beck and Bucky Pizzarelli. He also has a dynamic 7-string duo with guitarist Jerry Sims.
He and his wife, Patricia, an attorney and semi-professional clarinetist, have an eight-year old son, Andy.
