"El Candelo" (Kendall Jones) has been performing solo guitar in the Dallas area for over three decades. 

Kendall began at the age of eight studying classical piano, which gave him a basic understanding of music and his first glimpse into the intricacies and complexity of classical music. His parents recognized his talent and innate ability almost immediately and supported and encouraged him in his studies.  At the age of ten, one amazing night turned his interest from the piano to the guitar

In 1961, Kendall saw and heard Andres Segovia in concert and was forever changed by the experience.  The Maestro was capable of playing melody, bass and arpeggio simultaneously, and played with passion and romance that left Kendall's head swimming with visions of a Spanish era gone by. A classical guitar was acquired and he began studying through a local music studio owned by famous jazz guitar pioneer Johnny Smith.

Kendall had a public school education but focused his energies mainly on music classes and practicing scales, theory, and classical technique. He joined the choir instead of the stage band because the choir teacher needed a guitarist to accompany singers for special presentations at school or at social functions.

Kendall received his higher education in music during the seventies at North Texas State University, renown as one of the top music schools in the nation.  He formed several touring duo groups in Colorado and New Mexico.  He also attended the North Carolina School of the Performing Arts studying with Jesus Silva, John Marcus and was selected to attend master classes with Pepe Romero.

Later, Kendall studied flamenco guitar with Miguel Antonio and also developed numerous recordings and a classical and flamenco guitar library.

While playing one night in San Antonio, Kendall's performance was attended by famous Riverwalk flamenco guitarist Willie Champion.  Upon being introduced, an enthusiastic Willie told Kendall that his name should be "Candelo" (fire of the wick) due to the heat and intensity of his playing.  And so Kendall became Candelo. 

Currently, Candelo is performing for flamenco dance classes for Daniel de Cordoba in Dallas, Texas.  He also occasionally performs at Cafe Madrid, DeTapas Restaurant and other local restaurants and clubs.  He also performs at private parties for those that enjoy the flamenco and classical repertoire of the guitar.

Other venues of current interest are recording a solo guitar album due out in January, 2008.

To hear examples of Candelo's playing, go to the Samples page.  To book Candelo for your event, party, or restaurant, go to the Booking page.