VCU news

By Leila Ugincius and Patrick Fernandez

The Guitar and Other Strings Series is back for its 22nd season at the Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Music, part of the School of the Arts. Since its inception in 1992, the annual concert series has grown to include world-renowned artists each year. This year’s lineup consists of Tony Trischka, John Bullard, Adam Larrabee, Quatro na Bossa and Stephen Bennett – as well as the VCU Community Guitar Ensemble, consisting of 25 members and a few guests.

“Banjo Masters,” Friday, July 11, 7:30 p.m. General Admission: $15

Banjo Masters consists of three world-renowned artists: Tony Trischka, John Bullard and Adam Larrabee — each masters in their own style.

Trischka, dubbed the “godfather of … new acoustic music” by The New York Times, is considered one of the most influential and innovative banjo players and is a respected instructor within the field. For more then 45 years, he has inspired many within bluegrass and acoustic music. In 2012, Trishcka was awarded the United States Artists Friends Fellow in recognition of his work and his effect on the music world. 

Bullard, an alumnus of VCU’s music department, is the only banjoist to earn a Bachelor of Music in Performance from VCU. Bullard’s skillful and expressive playing has been featured in several films, including the award-winning “The Edge of Heaven” and the DreamWorks animated film “The Rise of the Guardians.” 

Larrabee received a master’s degree in composition at VCU and an undergraduate degree in jazz guitar at Oberlin Conservatory. As a member of Love Canon, a Charlottesville-based bluegrass band, Larrabee has played with a number of local jazz legends. 

“Quatro na Bossa,” Friday, July 18, 7:30 p.m. General Admission: $15

Kevin Harding and Laura Ann Singh formed Quatro na Bossa in 2003, with a heavy influence from Brazilian music. Quatro na Bossa plays familiar classics, rare pieces and original music at private functions, restaurants and film or other cultural festivals. Singh leads the band as its vocalist, with guitarist Harding, bassist Rusty Farmer and various drummers and percussionists backing her up. 

Quatro na Bossa plays frequently at the Lincoln Center's Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola in New York. In 2008 they released “Summer Samba” on Venus Records. Their music is refreshing and engaging while still keeping its roots in Brazilian culture.

Stephen Bennett, Friday, July 25, 7:30 p.m. General Admission: $15

Bennett is a master of the guitar, harp guitar and steel resonator guitar. He is also recognized as a gifted and challenging composer, and an outstanding performer with great sensitivity. 

His work is a combination of both mind and heart, seeming just as personal as it does universal. It not only challenges the listener, but satisfies emotionally.

In addition to performing on Friday, Bennett will hold a guitar workshop on Saturday, July 26, at 10 a.m. in Room B-15 of the Singleton Center for the Performing Arts. Admission is $35 dollars at the door for the workshop.

The VCU Community Guitar Ensemble, Sunday, July 27, 4 p.m. Free Admission

John Patykula will direct the 25-member guitar orchestra with guest artists. This is the ensemble's 28th anniversary.

All concerts will be in the Sonia Vlahcevic Concert Hall 
W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts
922 Park Ave., Richmond VA
For tickets and additional information, visit vcumusic.showclix.com, email musictix.vcu.edu or call the VCU Music Box Office at 804-828-6776