mick laBriola

Leonard Harold Breau (August 5, 1941 – August 12, 1984) was an American-Canadian guitarist. He blended many styles of music, including jazz, country, classical, and flamenco. Inspired by country guitarists like Chet Atkins, Breau used fingerstyletechniques not often used in jazz guitar. By using a seven-string guitar and approaching the guitar like a piano, he opened up possibilities for the instrument. On August 12, 1984, his body was found in the swimming pool at his apartment complex in Los Angeles, California. The coroner reported that Breau had been strangled. Breau’s wife, Jewel, was the chief suspect, but she was not charged.