Classical guitarist Paul Vondiziano will perform at Hope College on Saturday, Feb. 18, at 7:30 p.m. at the Knickerbocker Theatre.
The internationally acclaimed artist has recently released a new recording, "The Spirit of Brazil: Guitar Music of Joao Guimaraes-Pernambuco," which he will highlight during his performance.
"An aristocrat among guitarists" is how Dutch music critic Evert Lutz described Vondiziano after hearing him perform. "Vondiziano proved himself a soloist of distinction."
Born in Cyprus, Vondiziano began his study of the guitar at the age of eight. He continued his education in the United States in both philosophy and music, and holds a Master of Music degree from Duquesne University in Pennsylvania.
Following his studies he returned to Cyprus, where his performance activities led to further engagements and tours on the European continent. Since his return to America he has been active as a performer and continues to make appearances abroad.
In addition to his most recent recording, Vondiziano has four other recordings, including two devoted to the music of J.S. Bach and one featuring Mediterranean music.
Vondiziano has performed around the world in both solo performances and with orchestras, such as the Cyprus National Chamber Orchestra, the Boise Philharmonic, Kalamazoo Symphony and Plymouth Symphony. He has also participated in ensembles such as Opera Grand Rapids (in productions of "The Fall of the House of Usher" by Philip Glass) and Greek Music Groups.
Last February he performed a duo recital with guitarist Carlos de la Barrera to a full house at Hope College. In addition to his performance this year, Vondiziano will be meeting with Hope College students in class and leading a master class for guitarists.
Tickets for the performance are $10 for the general public, $7 for senior citizens and Hope College staff and faculty, and $5 for Hope College students and children 18 and under. Tickets are available at the ticket office in the DeVos Fieldhouse, which is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can be called at (616) 395-7890.
More information about Vondiziano can be found at his Web site, www.paulvondiziano.com.
The DeVos Fieldhouse is located facing Fairbanks Avenue between 9th and 11th streets. The Knickerbocker Theatre is located in downtown Holland at 86 E. 8th St.