On Friday 25th May, the West Sussex Guitar Club (WSGC)
together with the Latin American and Caribbean Cultural Society (LACCS)
proudly presented a concert given by the world famous legendary
Brazilian guitarist Carlos Barbosa-Lima. The Regis School of Music was
filled to capacity as people had travelled from far and wide to see this
concert - one of only two performances given in this country. Among the
audience were the Bognor Regis Mayor and Mayoress and members of guitar
clubs from as far as London, Dorset, Southampton and Brighton.
On a hot summer's evening, by the magic of music the audience were
transported to South America where we were spellbound by the captivating
rhythms. Nearly all were Carlos's own arrangements - and what beautiful
arrangements they were. Close your eyes and you could swear that there
were at least three guitars playing. So technically challenging and yet
so emotional at the same time. We were treated to well known gems such
as Perfidia, Frenesi, Adios, Siboney, Brazil, Desafinado and One Note
Samba as well as pieces from the classical guitar repertoire.
We heard a full orchestra played on the solo guitar. There
were so many voices playing in Gershwin's I Got Rhythm. Each time the
verse was played it was different, becoming more complex each time but
always melodic. No wonder that Segovia many years ago said that Carlos
was "..a musician gifted by the goddess of music". Carlos gave his
concert debut at the age of just 12 when his recording career began. He
sees no division between classical and popular music and moves with ease
from one style to another.
The evening was a treat for both guitar aficionados and those who just
like wonderful music. Carlos loves to play and the audience loves to
listen - what a splendid example of symbiosis. We must hope it is not
too long before he returns. What an oasis of culture we have on our
doorstep in the WSGC.
On a hot summer's evening, by the magic of music the audience were
transported to South America where we were spellbound by the captivating
rhythms. Nearly all were Carlos's own arrangements - and what beautiful
arrangements they were. Close your eyes and you could swear that there
were at least three guitars playing. So technically challenging and yet
so emotional at the same time. We were treated to well known gems such
as Perfidia, Frenesi, Adios, Siboney, Brazil, Desafinado and One Note
Samba as well as pieces from the classical guitar repertoire.
We heard a full orchestra played on the solo guitar. There
were so many voices playing in Gershwin's I Got Rhythm. Each time the
verse was played it was different, becoming more complex each time but
always melodic. No wonder that Segovia many years ago said that Carlos
was "..a musician gifted by the goddess of music". Carlos gave his
concert debut at the age of just 12 when his recording career began. He
sees no division between classical and popular music and moves with ease
from one style to another.