Miklós Birta is a renowned Hungarian guitarist, composer, educator and radio host, celebrated for his innovative contributions to jazz, his approach to fusions and contemporary music and his significant contributions to music education. Born in 1970 amd beginning his musical journey at the age of 10 initially studying classical and Spanish guitar, he quickly became known for his original compositions. By 1983, he was already performing his own compositions on stage, marking the start of a prolific career in music.
With a career spanning over three decades, Birta has worked across diverse genres, from theatre productions like Three Nights of Love at the National Theatre to film scores and pop music productions. He has performed with iconic artists like Károly Binder and Mike Stern, and his music has resonated with audiences worldwide.
A graduate of the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music, Birta earned his degree in jazz guitar in 1996 under the mentorship of Gyula Babos. He furthered his studies, completing a master’s degree in 2016. His academic pursuits are complemented by a deep commitment to teaching; he currently serves as a master teacher at the Kodolányi János University of Applied Sciences and the Dr. Lauschmann Gyula Jazz Secondary School, specializing in jazz guitar, music theory, and improvisation.
Birta’s professional journey spans a diverse array of musical endeavors. He has performed in theaters since 1990, with his debut work, “Three Nights of Love,” staged at the National Theatre. In 1999, he collaborated with Károly Binder on “African Sanctus,” performing at the Academy of Music and the Eger Sports Hall. His versatility is evident in his participation in pop music productions and underground bands, as well as his contributions to film scores. Notably, he was a member of the Budapest Jazz Orchestra from 2012, later becoming a permanent member in 2014.
As a solo artist, Birta has released four albums showcasing his original compositions: Next Generation (1998), Hey Kids! (2004), Friends (2009), and Generation X (2019). His music reflects a blend of influences, including Al Di Meola, John McLaughlin, Paco de Lucía, and Pat Metheny. In 2023, his composition “Changes,” an 11-piece work, was premiered by the Budapest Jazz Orchestra.
Beyond performance and composition, Birta is dedicated to music education. He founded the Birta Miki Guitar School, which operated from 2009 to 2014, offering scholarships, summer camps, and online guitar competitions. He has also published music theory books and instructional materials focused on his unique tuning system. His commitment to education was recognized with the 2022 Artisjus Pedagogue Award.
Birta’s influence extends internationally; he has performed and recorded with notable artists such as Mike Stern, Bill Evans (saxophonist), Gary Willis, and Eric Marienthal. His international engagements include performances in the United States, Latvia, and Poland, where he has collaborated with musicians like Chris Zawadzki and participated in tours with renowned saxophonists.
In addition to his musical endeavors, Birta hosts a weekly jazz radio show, JazzPresszó, on Érd FM since January 2015, further sharing his passion and knowledge of jazz with a broader audience.
With a career spanning over three decades, Miklós Birta continues to inspire through his performances, compositions, and dedication to music education, leaving an indelible mark on the Hungarian and international jazz scenes.