Synyster Gates
Brian Elwin Haner, Jr. (Born July 7, 1981.), better known by his stage name Synyster Gates or simply Syn, is an American musician, best known for being the lead guitarist of the American heavy metal band Avenged Sevenfold.
Early life
He studied at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood as part of the Guitar Institute of Technology program, studying jazz and classical guitar. After a year or so of being there, he got a phone call from The Rev asking him if he wanted to join his band, as lead guitarist. Haner joined rather than continuing his education and becoming a studio musician. Up until that time he was primarily self-taught by watching music videos and reading books. His father, Brian Haner, Sr., also known as "Guitar Guy," is a songwriter, guitarist and comedian. Gates is of Spanish, Cherokee and German descent. On May 7, 2011 he married Michelle DiBenedetto, twin sister to Valary DiBenedetto, who is Avenged Sevenfold's ex-tour manager, appeared in two of their music videos, and wife to M. Shadows.