Today we’d like to introduce you to Joe Mac.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
A Lifetime of Music, Teaching, and Performance
My journey in music began onstage as a senior in high school, guitar in hand, playing for a production of the Broadway hit Damn Yankees. That early taste of live performance lit a spark that would grow into a lifelong passion for both performing and teaching music.
While studying in college, I joined a blues band and quickly discovered how much I loved collaborating and sharing music with others. In 1975, I took my first teaching job at Farrington’s Music Center in Princeton, NJ, working with school-age students to help them read music and play guitar with confidence. I was hooked—and I’ve been teaching ever since.
From there, my path took me to New York City, where I balanced a busy schedule of private guitar and voice lessons with live gigs at iconic venues like Max’s Kansas City and CBGB’s. I’ve performed in clubs, major hotels, and even for military audiences while fronting my own band in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
In the late 1980s, I put down roots in the Tampa Bay area, where I continued performing as a solo artist and took on multiple teaching positions, including Seminole Music Center, and Paragon Music. I also launched my own group, Joe Mac and the Paradise Blues Band, which became a local favorite at festivals, clubs, and city-sponsored events.
In 1994, I had the unique opportunity to serve as the orchestral guitarist on Royal Caribbean’s Monarch of the Seas, which opened the door to nearly a decade of performances with Broadway show touring companies across Florida. I’ve had the privilege of playing with productions like Hello Dolly, A Chorus Line, and The Bernadette Peters Show at prestigious venues such as Ruth Eckerd Hall, Tampa Bay Center for the Performing Arts, and more.
In 2001, I served as Musical Director and guitarist for a Tampa production of HAIR with MAD (Music, Art & Dance Company). Around that time, I founded Ace Guitar and Vocal Music Studio and RockShop Band School in St. Petersburg, Florida—where I continue to offer music lessons today.
With decades of real-world experience on stage and in the studio, I’m passionate about helping students of all ages grow as confident, capable musicians—whether you’re picking up a guitar for the first time, refining your vocal technique, or looking to join a band and perform.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Operating a small business in Florida.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
In addition to my teaching business, I have just launched a digital music production and recording service, at the same location. I have recorded several original songs and now offer a place for other singer/songwriters to come and create their
sound.
What Sets Us Apart 🎙️
Effortless Experience Located strategically in Edgemoor, we’re an easy drive from St. Pete, Clearwater, Tampa,
you’ll spend less time finding us, and more time crafting your sound.
Gear That Inspires Whether you want analog warmth or digital precision, our collection—from classic tube amps to advanced synths—gives you the tools to bring every sonic vision to life.
Versatile Space Our setup flexibly supports everything: singer-songwriter intimacy, percussion layering, synth work,
and epic guitar sessions.
Studio Highlights🎙️
16-channel audio interface
Alesis electronic drums & full percussion set
Vintage Yamaha synthesizers + modern MIDI controllers
Curated tube amp collection for rich, analog guitar character.
Premium Microphone Locker
Our mic cabinet is stocked with top‑tier options: crystal‑clear large‑diaphragm condensers like the original Rode NT1 and Shure SM86, a selection of rugged Sennheiser and Shure dynamics, plus the legendary vintage Electro‑Voice Model 666—the very same style favored by The Beatles and the pioneers of rock ’n’ roll.
Your Sound, Our Mission🎙️
At Soundworkz, it’s not just about recording—it’s about collaboration, creativity,
and bringing your vision into focus.
Whether you’re laying vocal tracks, sculpting synth textures, or dialing in guitar magic,
our gear and your artistry combine for authentic, professional-grade results.
Most proud of my original recording, artist name is Joe Austin Mcintosh:
Song For John, on you tube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SL7vhqJe9C0
and recent video of my song Books About Space: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1B3cq39b2pM&pp=0gcJCcoJAYcqIYzv
What sets me apart from others offering similar teaching/recording services is experience…
not only as a teacher, but also real world music industry experience ranging from early days playing as an entertainer in night clubs to show band experience with Broadway road companies playing in the orchestra pit at venues such as Ruth Eckerd Hall, The Straz and cruise ship positions like Ships Guitarist for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I spent the first week of my life in a brand new invention called an Iron Lung, a ventilator without which I would not be here.
Pricing:
- Music Lessons: 30 mins. one on one, $35.00, 60 mins. is $70.00
- No contracts or ‘enrollment fees’
- Recording is $100.00/hour, 2 hour minimum.
- Payment is accepted in the form of: Cash, Debit or Credit cards, no PayPal, Venmo, etc.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://aceguitarandvocal.com/ https://soundworkzproductions.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aceguitarandvocalstpete/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/
- Youtube: You Tube Artist page Joe Austin Mcintosh: https://youtube.com/@joeaustinmcintosh2980?si=FTTaW0_cex9CWgQq
