Presented by Jazz Walnut Creek
“Martin Taylor is the finest British guitarist of his generation” – The Times of London “Bruce Forman is one of the great lights of our age.” – Barney Kessel
Grammy nominated Martin Taylor deploys a signature style that artfully combines virtuosity, passion and wit with a strong, engaging stage presence. His remarkable musical career spans five decades, with more than 100 recordings to his credit. Although completely self-taught, he has developed a unique approach to the guitar that is both admired and emulated by guitarists all over the world.
He has collaborated with such diverse artists as Jeff Beck, Bireli Lagrene, Tommy Emmanuel, Bill Wyman, Chet Atkins, Stephane Grappelli, David Grisman, George Harrison, Jamie Cullum, Bryn Terfel, Dianne Schuur and Gary Burton. Over his stellar career, Taylor has amassed a record 14 British Jazz Awards as a guitarist. Several of his albums have been in the Top 10 in both the USA and Europe.
Constant touring, twenty-one recordings as a leader, countless sideman recordings including Ray Brown and Bobby Hutcherson; soundtrack performances on three of Clint Eastwood’s distinguished films (most notably Oscar-winning Million Dollar Baby); arranger, educator… when does Bruce Forman rest?
His Texas origins and his early career in San Francisco and New York all inform his highly personal vision. With projects like Reunion! (revisiting the famed Poll Winners sessions with cohorts John Clayton and Jeff Hamilton, playing instruments owned by Barney Kessel, Ray Brown and Shelly Manne); The Red Guitar; his podcast GuitarWank; his band Cow Bop; JazzMasters Workshop; Junkyard Duo; GrumpsTV, Forman’s endlessly fertile imagination fuels an American saga still in full swing.
approx. 2 hours, with one 15-minute intermission
This event is recommended for ages 5 and up.