Andy Cyphert: A talented Vail Valley musician with a diverse catalog

There’s a reason Andy Cyphert has been voted Best Local Musician for seven consecutive years: It’s a combination of his talent, diverse catalog and determination to keep getting better. During the 2023-24 winter season, Cyphert went four months without a day off — and that’s music to our ears as his live performances are a must-see and just what you would expect —and more — from a mountain town après scene.

“It’s special,” he says. “I’m just grateful for the opportunities and excited to put in the work. Being from Northeast Ohio, nothing is given and everything is earned.”

His music is a perfect backdrop for people to gather and talk about their day’s adventures in the Rocky Mountains. He can be found at local bars, restaurants, outdoor patios, weddings, corporate events, fundraisers and more. And while he performs across the state, he feels most comfortable here at home in the Vail Valley.

“I never thought I would last this long here,” he says, approaching his 10-year mark in November of 2024. “When I moved to Vail I’d never heard of it.”

With an acoustic guitar and a smooth voice, Cyphert plays primarily covers, but his band is also releasing original music. At his après performances, you might hear The Beatles and the Eagles, followed by Creedence Clearwater Revival, John Mayer and John Denver, and even Taylor Swift. One of his most out-of-the-box requests has been Wu Tang Clan, which he pulled off brilliantly as a one-man-band.

Support Local Journalism

Donate

“I think that’s what people are impressed with the most, is the diversity of repertoire and the vocal ability,” he says.

Cyphert travels to Nashville to write and record new music with his bandmates —  also from Ohio — but his roots are now planted in the Vail Valley, and he has no plans of leaving anytime soon.

“Outside of music, the obvious thing is the outdoors and the environment,” he says of why he loves living here. “It’s such a great community, the opportunities and the lifestyle.”

Show some support for Cyphert by “feeding the bear” — his golden bear tip jar at each performance. And instead of buying him a drink, he prefers you feed the bear, or take care of your servers — a true local at heart.

Cyphert’s schedule is available on his website, http://www.andycyphert.com.

Next time you’re looking for live music, go see why Andy Cyphert has been named Best Local Musician for seven straight years.