Contra Guitar Duo: Hamish Strathdee & Emma-Shay Gallenti-Guilfoyle
CONTRA GUITAR DUO
Opposing yet complementary performers can create thrilling artistry - this is the basis on which Contra Guitar Duo was formed by Hamish Strathdee and Emma-Shay Gallenti-Guifoyle. The pair met at their university auditions ten years ago, and have been making music together ever since. Their contrasting musical personalities and charming personal chemistry bring a dynamic spin to the fantastic combination of two guitars. United by their passion to bring audiences music they love, Hamish and Emma-Shay are excited to showcase the varied and rich expressive capabilities of the guitar duo as an ensemble.
PROGRAM
Our program is a reflection of who we are as musicians and what inspires us. The concert opens with a set of Schubert inspired works by Johann Kaspar Mertz and continues with a beautiful minimalist work by the late Australian composer Phillip Houghton, before bringing the first half to a close with a new arrangement for two guitars of Australian composer Maria Grenfell's Di Primavera.
The second half of the concert opens with the juxtaposition of two pieces by Ross Edwards, a lullaby Emily’s Song and the lively and joyous Djanaba. We then play an interesting arrangement of a solo guitar work, Tansman’s Variations on a theme of Scriabin; here the audience gets to enjoy Tansman’s work in greater depth and colour, providing a new listening experience of a much loved work in the guitar repertoire. Finally the concert closes with a celebration of Brazilian music by Clarice Assad, with her three movement Brasileirinhas. The work explores many elements of traditional Brazilian music and is an exciting virtuosic conclusion.
HOUSE CONCERT
Limited seating for 50 guests in a lovely home with a performance space and comfortable seating. The performance will begin at 6pm and will be followed by drinks and some light bites (provided) and a chance to mingle.
Hosts Bill and Libby want to offer opportunities for Canberra audiences to share their passion for the classical guitar, its varied and interesting repertoire and for the very high level of talent present in the region.
The residence is on a battle-axe block with limited parking. Guests are advised to park on Cedrela Place and enter via a footpath at the front of the house.
Online bookings close pm 12 May to allow for set-up planning. The music starts promptly at 6pm; please plan accordingly.
Contact Details: Bill McIntyre 0407 930 717 or email canberraguitar@gmail.com