Jazz Guitar Today Pays Tribute To Guitarist Joe Negri

ByJGT Newsroom June 9, 2026June 9, 2026

Joe Negri was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on June 10, 1926, and died on May 30^th in Pittsburgh just ten days before his 100^th birthday.

Known to the world as Handyman Negri from the Mister Rogers Neighborhood children’s television show, Joe is first and foremost a guitar player, specifically, a world-class jazz guitar player. He has made Pittsburgh his home and base of operations as a TV performer, guitarist, and educator. Rest in Peace.

Photos provided by Mark Koch, Duquesne University

JGT Newsroom

Est. 2018 | Jazz Guitar Today... Today, Tomorrow & Tradition. JGT is where jazz guitarists come to learn, level up, and stay inspired. From world-class lessons and legendary artist interviews to trusted gear reviews and trend-setting content, we’re shaping the conversation around modern jazz guitar. Editor, Bob Bakert