Our guitar students were treated to an incredible performance and inspiring masterclass this month as award-winning, classical French guitarist, Gabriel Bianco made his Welsh debut.
Second year BMus student Samuele Scarpignato described the concert in the Dora Stoutzker Hall as “one of the best I’ve seen. The variety of the programme, the colours, his technique… he showed why he is renowned as one of the best guitarists in the world.”
A wonderful two days with the magnificent Gabriel Bianco @RWCMD A stunning concert in our beautiful Dora Stoutzker Hall (with probably the best shoes in the business) & then such an insightful and inspirational masterclass today. Thank you pic.twitter.com/PqkxrL42Vw
— Helen Sanderson (@guitarina) February 7, 2019
Since winning the prestigious Guitar Foundation of America competition in 2008, Gabriel has firmly established himself on the international concert stage as a soloist and chamber musician.
“Gabriel is an artist who finds joy in exploring the guitar’s immense world of colour,” said Helen Sanderson, Head of Guitar Performance. “His elegance of phrasing and his understanding of the subtlety of tone production enabled our students to search deeper into their instruments to find expressive timbres.”
The masterclass provided students with an opportunity to perform for Gabriel and receive his professional, practical advice.
An early espresso and we’re off! #GabrielBianco @RWCMD #masterclass pic.twitter.com/TR4mVXuQeA
— Helen Sanderson (@guitarina) February 7, 2019
“Gabriel shared with us how he understands the repertoire and the pieces we chose to play for him, and how he assembles the parts of a piece and shapes melody lines.” explained Samuele.
“His approach to music was inspiring. It felt very comfortable to play for such a humble man but also amazing musician. He was able to help everyone improve their pieces despite the variety of styles we choose.”
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Third year BMus Guitar student Kate Parry agreed. “It was such a pleasure to meet him. In the masterclass he discussed the importance of tone production and lyrical phrasing, giving us a number of useful exercises to implement these techniques and ideas. I do hope he comes back to the College in the near future! “
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