In August I spent a week in Brno, Czech Republic for the fantastic Brno Guitar Festival. The festvial presenters, Vladislav Blaha and his girlfriend Katarina, made it a superb week.
GRAMMY - Sharon Isbin records "Andecy" for her new CD "Journey to the New World" on Sony Classical, winning a GRAMMY in the "Best Instrumental Soloist Performance" category.
Los Angeles Dance Company Choreographs show to my music
In November, the Vaughn Dance company presented an entire show choreographed to my solo guitar pieces by choreographer/dancer Jennifer Vaughn. Performances were November 7, 8, and 9 at the Electric Lodge in Venice, CA. I was there to play one piece live to accompany Jennifer's solo dance. A very moving (no pun intended) experience, and a thrill to see my music set to dance with such passion.
Click the flyer below for detailed info.
Documentary Film, Primal Twang
This documentary film won "Best Documentary" in the Rome Georgia International Film Festival. Written and hosted by Dan Crary, and produced by filmmakers Anthony and Christina Adams, Primal Twang features Eric Johson, Albert Lee, Mason Williams, Doc Watson, myself, and many other fine players. It's about the history of the guitar - watch for it on PBS.
Film clip of Andrew playing "By Candlelight" in Primal Twang
Magazine Covers
Recent magazines that ran cover stories on me. They are Classical Guitar (U.K.), Fingerstyle Guitar (U.S.A) and twice on Gendai Guitar (Japan). Click on covers for larger view.
La Bella Strings Endorsement
I'm very happy to announce my new relationship with La Bella, maker of fine classical guitar strings. A few months ago, Bob Archigian of La Bella contacted me to see if I'd like to try their new strings. I said yes, a box came in the mail, and I was really impressed with the power and tonal range of the basses. So, we began to talk about a possible endorsement relationship. The following week, Richard Cocco, president of La Bella, flew to L.A. to meet with me over lunch. We signed a deal over the meal, and now I'm pleased to endorse their excellent strings. We are beginning to advertise in the classical guitar magazines - to the right is the recent ad I designed for Classical Guitar in England.
A few early photos
On the right, me in my backyard, which was essentially a forest. I could walk for half an hour without crossing a road.
On the right, belting out a song on someone's porch in Virginia. I'm sure it was Cat Stevens.