Two Virtuosos: one contemporary jazz, one classical, collaborate on a new tour and recordings.
Los Angeles, CA | Album Release | 9/21/17
HEART OF THE EMIGRANTS
Chart topping contemporary jazz guitarist Richard Smith and internationally awarded, classical guitarist Francesco Buzzurro announced today the dates of their Italian and U.S. tour dates to promote their new album: “HEART OF THE EMIGRANTS” .
Since their initial meeting in 2005, the two have strived to create a presentation that combines their unique musical backgrounds into an anthology of tunes enjoyable and appreciated by the masses. Their first recording, 2011’s Un Mondo, Due Chitarre takes its audience on a musical journey outside each respective player’s genres to explore new dimensions in the sound of two guitars. The opening piece, an original composition from Buzzurro, “Paisaje” sets the tone as the music weaves through arrangements of both Buzzurro and Smith, as well as Chick Corea, Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, and The Who.
On the surface, the two seem like an unlikely pair. If you delve further, within each musician, there is a very deep love for not only the guitar, but for the unique music they create together. Smith is an American born guitarist, best known for his numerous chart topping hits and achievements. Sicilian virtuoso Buzzurro is best recognized as an award winning classical guitarist. He is also one of the world’s foremost authorities on Sicilian folk music. His knowledge is so commanding that he is recognized by the Italian government as one of it's Ministers of Culture. Internationally acclaimed Bassist and Chapman Stick artist Alphonso Johnson has accumulated numerous performing, recording, teaching, producing, composing and publishing credits during his illustrious career. His touring and recording credits read like a “Who’s Who” of jazz and fusion, and he is considered one of the top performers in the world on his instrument. Ben Scholz is a drummer/percussionist, writer, and producer who lives and works in Los Angeles, California. A native of Portland Oregon, Ben began playing classical piano and percussion at an early age. Ben also frequently works in television and has produced, performed, and otherwise appeared on programs for MTV, WGN-9 and Second City.