Gerard Cousins
Gerard Cousins
Gerard Cousins is a true innovator in the world of classical guitar, pushing the boundaries of his instrument to create mesmerising music that appeals to a wide audience. From his unique interpretations of Philip Glass’s piano music to his transcriptions of choral composer Eric Whitacre, Gerard’s recordings have garnered millions of streams and landed on the front page of Apple Music.
But Gerard’s music is not just confined to the studio. His live performances are a true experience, featuring a repertoire that combines imaginative guitar arrangements with his own compositions. Gerard’s improvisational skills and interaction with the audience make every concert a one-of-a-kind event.
Gerard’s passion for music began early in life, absorbing the recordings of his guitar heroes John Williams and Julian Bream, as well as exploring the worlds of jazz, rock, electronic, Indian classical, flamenco and minimalist music. It was a concert by the legendary Joe Pass that convinced him of the power of a single guitar to captivate an audience.
Gerard’s journey to create the music he wanted to hear was not easy, but his perseverance paid off. His albums show an artist who started with traditional Spanish repertoire and evolved to incorporate his diverse influences. With his 2014 album, “The First Beat is the Last Sound,” Gerard found his unique voice, blending his past influences with his own original compositions.
Gerard’s recordings are broadcast all over the world and he has had special radio programmes dedicated to his guitar playing and compositions on BBC Radio Wales and France Musique. In 2015 he appeared on UK television as a finalist on Sky Arts ‘Guitar Star’.
A graduate of the University of Leeds and Enschede Conservatorium (Netherlands), He has performed in many festivals and concert halls around the world, from the Purcell Room on London’s South Bank to concert halls all over Europe, South America and the Middle East. He has released 7 albums, each one focusing on a different area of music from traditional Spanish repertoire to his original compositions and his unique re-imaginings of traditional Welsh music.
“An unexpected rediscovery of that universe… We can only salute Gerard Cousins’s prowess for having been able to intensify Glass’s music with a new flame.” Classica France
“Brings the music to life.” BBC music
“A rare guitar player… A master of the classical idiom and the range of techniques which it demands…Cousins has reached a rarefied point where his stunning playing is matched by his artistic vision.” Acoustic Magazine
