Steve Cowan is a Canadian classical guitarist who has gained international recognition for his virtuosic performances and innovative approach to the instrument. Born in 1989 in Ottawa, Canada, Cowan began playing guitar at the age of 10 and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. He studied with renowned guitarists such as Patrick Roux and Jerome Ducharme, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Ottawa and a Master of Music degree from the Conservatoire de musique de Montreal. Cowan's early career was marked by a series of impressive performances and awards. In 2011, he won first prize at the prestigious Guitar Foundation of America International Concert Artist Competition, which is considered one of the most important guitar competitions in the world. This win helped to launch Cowan's career and led to numerous performance opportunities in Canada, the United States, and Europe. In 2013, Cowan released his debut album, Pour guitare, which was met with critical acclaim. The album features a mix of classical and contemporary works, including pieces by Bach, Piazzolla, and Canadian composer Andrew Staniland. Cowan's virtuosic playing and sensitive interpretations of the music earned him praise from critics and audiences alike. Since then, Cowan has continued to build his reputation as one of the most exciting young guitarists on the international scene. He has performed at major festivals and concert halls around the world, including the Montreal International Jazz Festival, the Festival Internacional de Guitarra de Taxco in Mexico, and the Guitar Foundation of America Convention. He has also collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, the Canadian Guitar Quartet, and the jazz pianist Oliver Jones. One of Cowan's most notable performances was his debut at New York's Carnegie Hall in 2017. He was invited to perform as part of the D'Addario Foundation's annual benefit concert, which raises money to support music education programs for underprivileged youth. Cowan's performance was a highlight of the evening, and he received a standing ovation from the audience. In addition to his performing career, Cowan is also an active educator and has taught at several universities and music schools in Canada and the United States. He is currently on the faculty at the University of Ottawa and the Conservatoire de musique de Montreal. Cowan's approach to the guitar is characterized by his technical mastery of the instrument and his willingness to explore new sounds and styles. He is known for his use of extended techniques, such as percussive effects and harmonics, and his ability to seamlessly blend classical and contemporary styles. His repertoire includes works by a wide range of composers, from the Baroque era to the present day. Cowan's most recent album, Opaque, was released in 2020 and features a mix of original compositions and arrangements of works by composers such as Bach, Scarlatti, and Ravel. The album showcases Cowan's versatility as a musician and his ability to create a unique and compelling sound on the guitar. Overall, Steve Cowan is a talented and innovative musician who has made a significant impact on the classical guitar world. His virtuosic playing, creative approach to the instrument, and dedication to music education have earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the most exciting guitarists of his generation.

More....