Blair Zettl
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Copyright©1996, 1998
The Artist
Just a few of the accolades guitar aficionados have used
to describe Blair Zettl's superb playing:
"Zettl is an extraordinarily talented classical musician ..."
Dr. Elwood Bear
Atención San Miguel, Mexico
" ... a very communicative player."
José Tomas
Alicante, Spain
"In our time Zettl has consolidated a personal style which today distinguishes him among the younger generation of the world's guitarist's."
Hoy en la Cutura
Canal Once, México
Since the early nineties, Zettl has been mesmerizing select audiences in Canada, Mexico, Argentina , Singapore, and Spain. In 1999 we will share his masterful sound with new audiences in concerts throughout the world.
His first album, Circulatio, was recorded in Canada in 1996 and contains a wonderful variety of music for the classical guitar from numerous countries. In fact its´ international flavour lead Jurgen Gothe, of CBC´s DiscDrive, to describe it as "The United Nations of the Guitar." Zettl has since then released the follow-up second album White Syrup Rain (1997). Recorded in both Canada and Mexico, this album features his most evocative compositions, as well as his eloquent explorations of some of the finest music ever written for guitar. Each track is a gem: the vocals are soul-stirring, the ensemble and solo guitar pieces brilliant. Early in 1999 Zettl will release his eagerly awaited third album - Concierto de las Americas ; a celebration of the rich and eclectic culture of the Americas. It will include a selection of solo guitar pieces from seven composers of different countries throughout the Americas, including: Villalobos, Carlevaro, and Lauro.
Zettl´s artistry lies in his sensitivity, virtuosity and diversity.
An accomplished classical guitarist, he has also mastered both the romantic
and the fiery Latin repertoire. His professional training includes degrees
from Canada´s Brandon University (B.Mus.) and the University of British
Columbia (M.Mus); a sojourn in Argentina to immerse himself in one of the
vibrant Latin cultures in which the guitar flourishes; and several months
in Alicante, Spain, where he worked to perfect his craft under the tutelage
of word renowned teacher José Tomas. He has since travelled and performed
extensively in Mexico. The results are spectacular. Audiences marvel at
the way this young Canadian captures the very soul of the Spanish guitar
in his dazzling fingerplay, and find themselves transported by his hauntingly
sensuous interpretations of composers like Brouwer, Mertz, and Barrios.
Zettl brings his rich cultural experience to the stage with him, sharing the colourful stories and history behind the pieces he performs.
Whether in an intimate live concert; on the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation´s national network; television or radio abroad; or in published articles, reviews and interviews, Zettl´s insights inform and inspire as his music delights. Small wonder Circulatio and White Syrup Rain have been winning so much airtime among discerning broadcasters. Concierto de Las Americas can only heighten his reputation.
As word spreads, this exciting young artist finds himself in demand for encore performances in venues which include the pretigious Palacio de Cortés, Sala Carlos Chavez at UNAM, the Canadian Embassy in Mexico City, and DBS Auditorium in Singapore. He is now poised for an extensive international tour. For true guitar lovers, an evening with Blair Zettl will prove unforgettable.
