The Rev. Arthur S. Harvey, C.S.C., Award - 2016: Gene Bertoncini '59

Published on March 6, 2026

2016: Gene Bertoncini '59

 
 

In recognition of his distinguished work as a jazz musician, Gene Bertoncini ’59 is honored with this award.

A native New Yorker, Bertoncini graduated from Notre Dame with a degree in architecture and went on to become one of the world’s preeminent jazz guitarists. His technique and lyricism have won him international praise and accolades as the “Segovia of jazz.” An eloquent and versatile improviser, Bertoncini has been heard with an extraordinary range of jazz greats, including performances and recordings with Benny Goodman, Buddy Rich, Wayne Shorter, Hubert Laws, and Paul Desmond among others, as well as such distinguished singers as Tony Bennett, Lena Horne, Nancy Wilson, Vic Damone, and Eydie Gorme.

A prolific and popular studio musician, Bertoncini honed his professional chops as a member of the Tonight Show band during Johnny Carson’s tenure, and he has worked with composers and arrangers such as Lalo Schifrin and Michel Legrand and has performed with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra. In addition to an active performing and recording schedule, Bertoncini teaches at the Eastman School of Music and William Patterson University.

“The privilege of studying Architecture at Notre Dame opened the door to the understanding of many ways of life. Using my God-given gift of music to enhance the lives of people has been my calling and joy."

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