Peter Betan - Local Spotlight

By Jay Skolnick & Rick Yontz

Peter Betan is an artist and musician who frequently engages with his audience on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to share updates on his music. He expresses gratitude for the talented friends and fellow artists who collaborate with him on his projects. His work suggests a focus on creating original indie music that blends classic pop/rock influences with modern independent artistry.

Peter is a critically acclaimed American independent fingerstyle acoustic guitarist, singer, songwriter, recording artist, and producer who has been professionally active in South Florida for over 30 years. He is known for his unique compositions that blend various musical styles and his captivating live performances.

Born in New York City, Betan is a self-taught guitarist who moved to South Florida and began performing professionally in the late 1980s. He found a significant market for live music in the growing South Florida area and built his career as a local artist. Early in his career, he was noted for his solo acts, which managed to capture the attention of audiences in a way most solo performers couldn't. He has released several albums and singles throughout his career, often locally produced initially, and continues to record and perform live, collaborating with other musicians.

Key Achievements
"Miami's Best Soloist" Award: In 1991, the weekly newspaper New Timesnamed him "Miami's Best Soloist".
Opened for Bob Dylan: He has shared the stage with top acts, including opening a concert for the legendary Bob Dylan.
Debut Album "Short Stories": His first album, a collection of 10 guitar and flute pieces, was produced after a woman who heard him play in Coconut Grove hired him to write a soundtrack for a gymnastics troupe's European tour.
Extensive Discography: He has released multiple albums and singles, including "Betan", "Out of Love", "Passion Fix", "One in a Million", and the recent "Don't Look Back" (2025).
Mastering at Abbey Road Studios: His 2025 single "Don't Look Back" was mastered at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in the UK.

Collaborations: He frequently performs in a duo with Grammy Award-winning percussionist Edwin Bonilla.
Sustained Career: He has maintained a professional and critically acclaimed independent music career for over three decades, building a loyal local following.