Rafael Mar
Brazilian guitarist, contemporary composer and reseacher
Graduated Flamenco Guitarrist (CSM Córdoba, Andalucía)
Ma. Flamenco-Reseach (ESMUC - Barcelona, Catalunya)
Debut solo álbum (HI-FI - 2020) awarded with the 1st Herbert Holetz Prize (FCB)
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
Hi-Fi (2020), is a Suite for solo Flamenco Guitar. Inspiration is self-biographic, often evoquing South Brazilian relaxed mood and breathtaking landscapes.
Having performed as Flamenco accompanist for over a couple of decades, my work now relies on artistic appropiation, with the elements of Flamenco music appearing subjected to my own work's expressive needs, where it combines with elements of distinct origins.
My academic research fully rellies on identification and development of identity and personality, led over a background of global cultural dialogue over the centuries and how it translates into today's artistic expressions.
Very humble beginnings, off a family based on working class and countryside field workers.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
My prefered artistic experience, being on a Concert Hall stage.
I have retired since 2021-22 due to the covid-19 pandemic, without any near public appearance in sight.
Your musical influences
I appreciate every kind of music ever made, and pay attention to all of it. Nevertheless, my main sources of inspiration are musicians like Keith Jarret, S. Rachmaninoff, Badi Assad, B. Bártok, Baden Powell, Manolo Sanlúcar, Mayhem, F. Chopin, Paco Cepero, J. S. Bach, H. Villa-Lobos, and many more.
What equipment do you use?
Main instrument: Francisco Manuel Diaz (2006) - Pino abeto/Jacarandá
Mics: Aston Spirit, Neumann TLM 102, AKG C535eb, Bartlett Mic (12V b. version)
Amps: VOX aga 60 acoustic tube amp (2 units)
Anything else?
Thank you for your appreciation. Your welcome to leave a comment!
