Concerto for Guitars and Orchestra (36:00)

This work is for the virtuoso guitarist who is expert on both classical and electric guitar with effects – dedicated to Jimi Hendrix and John McLaughlin.  I grew up listening to Jimi Hendrix, and Beethoven.  Both evoked a strong passion for music, which grew in me over the years.  Along the way I also encountered Brahms, those passionate Russians, and a host of amazing 20^th century musicians, including Stravinsky, Bartok, Berg, Ginastera, Takemitsu, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Eric Dolphy, Miles Davis, John McLaughlin.  It’s a potent brew. I believe the electric guitar deserves a respected place in the concerto repertory, being a powerful and expressive instrument capable of holding its own with the orchestra.  Combined with the delicacy and tradition of the classical guitar, a universe of expressive possibilities exist.  Let your imagination wander through the sonic landscapes.

1. Mirrors (6:50) – features the electric guitar.
2. Earth Blues (8:20) – starts with E-bow on electric guitar, then transitions to classical guitar.
3. Straight Ahead (7:10) – features the classical guitar.
4. Freedom (13:40) – blends material from the prior movements and introduces new related themes. A feeling of freedom or liberation in the understated virtuosity. Middle section features classical guitar. May be performed independently from the other movements.