Role

:

Composer  

Birth

:

August 8, 1965 in Havana, Cuba

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Concerto

 

Joaquin Clerch is a Cuban classical guitarist and composer who has gained international recognition for his virtuosic performances and innovative compositions. Born on October 16, 1965, in Havana, Cuba, Clerch grew up in a family of musicians. His father, Joaquin Clerch Sr., was a renowned guitarist and composer, and his mother, Maria Teresa Vera, was a singer and guitarist who was considered one of the most important figures in Cuban music history. Clerch began playing the guitar at the age of six, under the guidance of his father. He quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument and began performing publicly at the age of nine. In 1976, he entered the National School of Art in Havana, where he studied with renowned guitarists such as Leo Brouwer and Jesus Ortega. After graduating from the National School of Art, Clerch continued his studies at the Higher Institute of Art in Havana, where he received a degree in guitar performance. He then went on to study at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest, Hungary, where he studied with the legendary guitarist and composer, Zoltan Tokos. Clerch's early compositions were heavily influenced by the music of his native Cuba, as well as by the classical guitar repertoire. His first major work, "Suite Cubana," was composed in 1987 and was premiered by the Cuban National Symphony Orchestra. The piece is a tribute to the music of Cuba, incorporating elements of traditional Cuban music, such as the son and the bolero, into a classical guitar setting. In 1990, Clerch won first prize at the International Guitar Competition in Havana, which helped to launch his international career. He has since performed in major concert halls around the world, including Carnegie Hall in New York, the Royal Albert Hall in London, and the Berlin Philharmonic. Clerch's compositions have continued to evolve over the years, incorporating a wide range of influences and styles. His 1995 work, "Concerto for Guitar and Orchestra," is a virtuosic showcase for the guitar, featuring intricate fingerwork and complex harmonies. His 2001 work, "Sonata for Guitar," is a more introspective piece, featuring lyrical melodies and a contemplative mood. In addition to his work as a composer and performer, Clerch has also been a dedicated teacher. He has taught at the National School of Art in Havana, as well as at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest. He has also given masterclasses and workshops around the world, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring guitarists. Clerch's contributions to the world of classical guitar have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. In 2000, he was awarded the Order of Cultural Merit by the Cuban government, in recognition of his contributions to Cuban culture. In 2015, he was awarded the Medal of Honor by the Hungarian government, in recognition of his contributions to Hungarian culture. Today, Joaquin Clerch continues to perform and compose, pushing the boundaries of classical guitar music and inspiring a new generation of guitarists. His dedication to his craft and his passion for music have made him one of the most important figures in the world of classical guitar.

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