Tom Picard began playing guitar at the age of twelve and started writing songs soon after.

His earliest influences include everything from show tunes to early rock and roll to the British invasion of the mid sixties. But it wasn’t until he heard and studied the songs of Bob Dylan that he considered songwriting as a serious art form, capable of expressing a variety of emotions and ideas.  Tom has written hundreds of original songs and is always in the process of composing. 

After playing in many garage bands over the years, Tom began branching out into bluegrass and old time music in the late seventies.  He’s also had a life-long interest in both electric and folk blues.  All of these influences can be heard in his performances, which range from mellow folk to raucous rock and roll to jazzy grooves as Tom moves from one original song to another.  Along with his acoustic guitar, Tom often augments his performances with harmonica, banjo, ukulele, and mandolin and occasionally he sings a song acapella.

In recent years he has often shared the stage with his fellow musician and good friend Gary O’Neill.  Together they perform original material under the name The Guitards and often invite other musicians to back them up.

In addition, Tom Picard is an accomplished artist in his own right and is currently illustrating his original songs for an upcoming songbook.  Tom is the emcee and Director of Café Zed, a monthly music venue, presenting featured performers and encouraging and inviting open mic enthusiasts to perform as well.

Tom is well known for entertaining audiences with his wide range of material including witty, beautiful and hypnotic ballads, and clever takes on politics, world news and life in general.

To read about Tom in the Montclair Times, click here