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Hicksville, NY (Top40 Charts/ Sam Ash Music) Sam Ash Music's Best In Shred final round was a star-studded event that featured virtuoso guitar playing and insightful commentary from a "who's who" panel of celebrity judges. For the contestants, it was both exciting and intimidating.

Imagine having to get on stage alone and showcase your guitar-playing chops to some of the most well-known rock stars around: George Lynch, legendary guitarist for Dokken and Lynch Mob; John 5, guitarist for Rob Zombie and Marilyn Manson; Herman Li, he of DragonForce fame; Andy Timmons, guitarist for Danger Danger; Kiko Loureiro, lead guitarist for Angra; and Frank Bello, bassist for Anthrax.

The crowd and the shredders were thrilled listening to the judges' opinions and advice about the performances they witnessed. "You have tons of energy and enthusiasm. Just slow down a bit; it's not a race!" offered George Lynch to one contestant. The eventual winner, John-Joe Michael Roarty appreciated Herman Li's comments: "The joy you feel when playing is obvious to anyone watching you!"

Besides the encouraging words, John-Joe walked off with the grand prize of $20,000 worth of music, sound and recording gear including a custom model Ibanez guitar flown in from Japan for the event. Plus he will appear live in concert with Steve Vai later this year.

Sam Ash Music, launched the "Best in Shred" contest in October to find America's best unsigned guitar player. Over six hundred guitarists entered. The judges scored the players on their technical skills, originality, accuracy, and showmanship to determine the winner.

Sam Ash Music is the country's leading full-line music store chain with over 45 stores. The family owned and operated business opened in 1924 with a small store in Brooklyn and now operates stores nationwide.