Country

:

United States of America

Period

:

Contemporary

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Crossover

 

The Los Angeles Guitar Quartet (LAGQ) is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique sound and virtuosic performances for over three decades. The quartet was founded in 1980 by four accomplished guitarists: John Dearman, William Kanengiser, Scott Tennant, and Peter Yates. All four members of the LAGQ had studied guitar at the University of Southern California (USC) under the tutelage of the renowned Spanish guitarist Pepe Romero. After graduating, they decided to form a quartet and began rehearsing together regularly. Their hard work paid off when they won the prestigious Concert Artists Guild International Competition in 1981, which helped launch their career. Since then, the LAGQ has become one of the most successful and respected guitar ensembles in the world. They have released over 20 albums, won a Grammy Award, and performed in some of the most prestigious concert halls around the globe. The quartet's sound is characterized by their seamless blend of classical, jazz, and world music influences. They are known for their innovative arrangements of classical works, as well as their original compositions and collaborations with other musicians. One of the LAGQ's most notable performances was their appearance at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. They performed a piece composed by John Williams, the famous film composer, which was broadcast to millions of viewers around the world. In 1998, the LAGQ won a Grammy Award for their album "Guitar Heroes," which featured arrangements of music by some of the greatest guitarists of all time, including Jimi Hendrix, Django Reinhardt, and Carlos Santana. The quartet has also collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including jazz guitarist Pat Metheny, classical guitarist Christopher Parkening, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition to their performances, the LAGQ is also committed to music education. They have conducted masterclasses and workshops around the world, and have released several instructional books and DVDs for guitarists of all levels. Despite their success, the LAGQ remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the guitar. They continue to explore new sounds and styles, and are always looking for new ways to inspire and engage their audiences. Today, the LAGQ is comprised of John Dearman, William Kanengiser, Matthew Greif, and Scott Tennant. While Peter Yates left the group in 2006, he remains an important part of the quartet's history and legacy. The LAGQ's impact on the world of classical music cannot be overstated. They have inspired countless guitarists and musicians around the world, and have helped to elevate the guitar to a level of respect and recognition that it had not previously enjoyed. As they continue to perform and record, the LAGQ remains a vital and innovative force in the world of classical music, and a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity.

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