Music at St. Theresa | Classical Guitar with Darin Layne

Darin Layne is an Austin-based guitarist, composer, and producer known for his exceptional musicianship and versatility across genres. A multi-instrumentalist with deep roots in jazz, classical, and popular music, Darin has become a respected name both locally and internationally.

His latest album, D Shack (2021), is a dynamic collaboration with David Pulkingham under the name Pulkingham Layne. The 11-track project, built entirely from live takes, showcases Darin’s mastery of the 7-string guitar alongside auxiliary textures from glockenspiel, melodica, accordion, and piano. With contributions from two guest artists, D Shack expands the sonic landscape and highlights Darin's nuanced musicality.

Darin’s discography includes Stringology (2017), Poison Flower (2015), and Left of Sunday Afternoon (2009). A prolific recording artist, he has released nine albums of his own, appeared as a studio guitarist on hundreds more, and performed countless shows spanning jazz, Latin, classical, rock, Brazilian choro, and beyond. His work has earned coverage in Guitar Player, JazzTimes, and All About Jazz.

Originally from Buffalo, NY, Darin displayed prodigious talent from a young age. He began on piano before exploring cello, saxophone, and ultimately, guitar. He attended Houston’s High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and earned a degree in Jazz Guitar Performance from the University of North Texas.

As a top-call session player, Darin’s guitar work has been featured in film, TV, and radio, including the Netflix film Blue Miracle, NPR’s This American Life, PRI’s Echoes, KUTX’s Horizontes, and CNBC’s American Made. He has recorded and performed with artists such as Moby, Paul Barker (Ministry), Donovan, Chrysta Bell, David Lynch, and Frank Mantooth.

In addition to leading several ensembles—including Left of Sunday Afternoon, The Darin Layne Trio, Pulkingham Layne, The Crying Monkeys, and Gel—Darin performs regularly with a variety of Austin musicians. He also teaches guitar at Austin Community College and maintains a private studio.

We are thrilled to host Darin at St. Theresa! Join us for this free performance!