ABOUT ROB: BIOGRAPHY

UPDATED: March 2026

Canadian-born, Toronto-native Rob Tardik is multi award-winning guitarist and contemporary pop/jazz/world/fusion instrumental music artist, who has performed at world class theatre venues and festivals all over North America and on the Dave Koz Cruise for the last three years at destinations all across Europe.

Rob’s recordings have spawned 6 U.S Billboard charting singles, two of which went to the Top 10 on U.S contemporary jazz radio. His awards include being a finalist and honorary mention in the 2019 International Songwriting Competition, winning the 2018 & 2007 Established Solo Music Instrumental Mississauga (MARTY) Arts Award, and placing 1st overall in the prestigious 2017 IAMA (International Acoustic Music Awards), and being named the 2010 Canadian Smooth Jazz Guitarist of the Year.

His multi-album release DIVERSITY is a 4-volume compilation in his various musical styles featuring all new material and re-mastered songs from all his past six recordings. Rob’s 11th recording / touring project “Perspective” came out in May 2025 and featured the global radio single Keep Going. He is an active music/guitar professor at the Metal Works Institute, Centennial College, Long-McQuade, and the Merriam School of Music and a Godin Guitars and D ‘Addario endorsed artist for over 25 years.

Testimonials

“Rob Tardik and his band create a dynamic blend of contemporary instrumental pop, with influences of Latin, jazz, rock, flamenco and world music, that thrills and energizes audiences. “ – Eric Lariviere, Flato Markham Theatre

”Upbeat, fun, funky and positive music to put a smile on your face, and groove to your step.”  – Michael Grit, Richmond Hill Performing Arts Centre

“Hopeful and inspired music for all ages!”  – Tim Goodman, Capitol Theatre / Port Hope

“We had a really wonderful time with you and your crew in our club last month!  Lots of terrific energy, and great comments from our loyal audience all around!”  – Larry Larson The Jazz Room

“It was great to have you onboard our Somma cruise and as always, your performances were top notch.”  – Dave Koz 2024

“Rob’s show was outstanding! Prolonged standing ovation at the end, for the high level of musical talent and technique from Rob and his great band.”  – Costin Manu, Burlington Performing Arts Centre

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AWARDS

Rob has now followed up with his 2nd MARTY in 2018, in the category of Established Solo Instrumental Artist of the Year
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2007 Mississauga Arts Award - Established Performer of the Year
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2010 Canadian Smooth Jazz Award - Guitarist of the Year
Rob Tardik is honoured to be endorsed by D'Addario Canada
:: manufacturer of fine musical instruments and accessories...
"I have been using their strings for all my nylon and electric guitars forever. Their Hard Tension EXP46 Nylon strings last 3-4 times longer, hold their clarity and intonation and don't turn green on me after a weekend of gigs!"
~ Rob Tardik
...Endorses Rob Tardik
"I can honesty say that the Godin Multiac has been my bread and butter guitar for the last decade. Gig after gig, its reliability, tone, and flexibility of use in so many crossover genres that I perform in has been nothing short of amazing. Having the balance of the nylon strings, synth access, ease of playability and lack of feedback makes it my #1 choice for a gigging instrument and for all my musical needs! Thanks Godin for building such a unique and exciting instrument!"

~ Rob Tardik