The New York Times has a piece today on a short video over on YouTube in which Pachelbel’s Canon is played with extraordinary virtuosity on an electric guitar by a complete unknown called, Jeong-Hyun Lim.

“The piece that funtwo played with mounting dexterity was an exceedingly difficult rock arrangement of Pachelbel’s Canon, the composition from the turn of the 18th century known for its solemn chord progressions and its overexposure at weddings. But this arrangement, attributed on another title card to JerryC, was anything but plodding: it required high-level mastery of a singularly demanding maneuver called sweep-picking.

“Over and over the guitarist’s left hand articulated strings with barely perceptible movements, sounding and muting notes almost simultaneously, and playing complete arpeggios through a single stroke with his right hand. Funtwo’s accuracy and velocity seemed record-breaking, but his mouth and jawline — to the extent that they were visible — looked impassive, with none of the exaggerated grimaces of heavy metal guitar heroes. The contrast between the soaring bravado of the undertaking and the reticence of the guitarist gave the 5-minute, 20-second video a gorgeous solemnity.”

Hear it on The Blog Herald.

I just found about an artist by the name of Jason Becker. Mr. Becker is an amazing person who has been dealt a really tough hand, but is facing it with grace and courage. Becker is a neoclassical guitarist, who was diagnosed in 1989 with ALS, otherwise known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. That was a lot longer ago than the three to five years his physicians gave him to live.

Chris Ruel, an avid fan, says that Becker’s trademarks are, “Virtuoso guitarist, purist neoclassical compositions that are melodical and accessible, blazing speed, articulate precision, awesome sweep picking, exotic scales, (and) pioneer of the neoclassical genre.”

Take some time to peruse Jason Becker’s site. His music is a little different than many of the neoclassical artists that you will hear, but it is worth your time. He is a very talented musician and we wish him only the best.

Jason Becker Official Web Site

Chris Ruel’s Fan Site

Acoustic guitar is one of the most popular instruments found in neoclassical music. Few artists have been able to capture the soul and spirit of the message they are conveying in their music, better than Brian Henke. I love his quote.

 

With imagination we can capture infinity.
With love, we can make infinity worth imagining.
Brian Henke 

I hope to be more comprehensively reviewing Henke’s work soon, but I have been able to hear some samples of his music. Samples that made me want to review more!

When I review music, I like to put on my headphones, close my eyes, and just see where the music takes me. Sometimes I just wait for it to be over (bad sign). Sometimes, I am quite caught up and am disappointed when the music stops. Other times, and these are the really good times, I am transported somewhere else by what I am hearing.

Being transported somewhere else, is in my opinion, what music is all about. In this case, the music reflects nature and the world around us, and takes us to a deeper understanding of what that could mean for each of us. This music that is inspired by nature is powerful stuff. I believe, it speaks to a self within, that is still in touch with the universe and not cluttered with the everyday busyness of life.

You can (legally and free) download some of Henke’s music at Free Solo Guitar. It is a great way to hear music and know what fits into your life. I am sure that Brian Henke’s music will be a custom fit.

Brian Henke Official Web Site

Free Solo Guitar - Brian Henke

One of a growing breed of new acoustic musicians gaining a reputation for an eclectic approach to performance and composition, Peter Janson offers original fingerstyle guitar music with folk roots, mild rhythmic grooves, New Age aesthetics, Jazz aesthetics, Celtic elements, demanding part writing, and acoustic sonority. Solo and with his band this is world class acoustic music with artistry, detail of classical technique, and attention to melodic line. According to “Wind & Wire” magazine, “Peter Janson is one of the best acoustic guitarists recording today…a true artist’s soul.”

Acoustic guitar is proving to be a very popular form of new age or neoclassical music. I have been listening to his music tonight, and frankly, I am having problems picking the one I would call my favorite. Each piece is done with the gift of spirit and the skill of a well-trained musician. He allows the music say what he needs to say and leaves it at that.

Janson does have a page with music sample. I really appreciate artists doing this - it gives the listener a chance to hear different musicians and find the CD (or CDs) that are favorites. I know you will enjoy Peter Janson.

Peter Janson’s Official Web Site

Peter Janson’s Music Samples