In episode #88 of Guitar Chat, we had the pleasure of speaking with Russian guitar phenomenon Max Ostro—a rising star known for his jaw-dropping technique, musical maturity, and expressive style.
Still in his early twenties, Max has already captivated the global guitar community with performances that combine incredible speed, technical precision, and most importantly, emotional depth.
A random moment that changed everything
Max recalls the first time he felt drawn to the guitar—it happened almost by accident. At just six and a half years old, he found an old acoustic guitar at his grandmother’s house and took it home.
“It wasn’t the first guitar I’d seen, but for some reason I just had to bring that one with me.”
Not long after, he enrolled in beginner guitar lessons—and his journey began.
Self-taught with guidance
Although he started with basic chord classes, Max describes most of his electric guitar journey as self-taught.
“I spent three years playing open chords without knowing there was more to it.”
Eventually, he discovered blues, rock, and jazz through players like Buddy Guy, Robben Ford, and Django Reinhardt. His passion for the electric guitar exploded, and so did his skills.
From shred to soul
Max mentions Paul Gilbert as one of his childhood heroes, but also highlights newer influences like Chris Buck, whose expressive phrasing and tone have deeply inspired him recently.
“Chris Buck helped me focus on vibrato and phrasing. He’s been a big influence.”
While known for his technical ability, Max emphasizes how much he values feel, timing, and intention—qualities that can often get lost in the world of shred guitar.
Technique with meaning
What makes Max unique is his ability to combine flawless technique with genuine expression.
“It’s not that I didn’t know how to play slow… I just never recorded myself doing it. Once I did, I started to hear what I’d only felt before.”
That awareness of nuance—vibrato, touch, space—has shaped his current evolution as an artist.
Next stop: NAMM and Vegatrem
During the interview, Max shares his excitement about the future—and hopes to play live at the Vegatrem booth at NAMM Show 2026:
“It would be an honor to play at the Vegatrem booth. I really hope to make it.”
🎸 At Vegatrem, we’re proud to have Max Ostro as part of our artist family. He embodies the future of guitar: technical mastery, artistic growth, and expressive freedom.
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