Concord Records
Guitarist Carlos Barbosa-Lima returns to Hawaii.
Fresh approach keeps
Star-Bulletin staff
guitarist’s boundaries openThirty-three years and some 40 albums after recording his first, guitar virtuoso Carlos Barbosa-Lima says maintaining the energy, excitement and inspiration for his unique style is never difficult. "Playing the guitar has never been just a way to earn a living" he said. "I enjoy trying new things, finding new projects, new repertoires, new styles and publishing music. It keeps the interest fresh."
Barbosa-Lima will perform at the University of Hawaii's Orvis Auditorium this weekend as part of the Summer Session's Sunday Guitar Series.
The popularity of Barbosa-Lima's music, which Guitar International magazine said has reshaped "the boundaries of the classic guitar's repertoire," is due to its ability to communicate to listeners.
"It seems to transport people to a different place, through the sound, or the phrasing, I guess," he said.
Since performing in Hawaii last year, the Brazil native has moved to Puerto Rico from New York City, where he had lived for several years.
"I really do not know why I didn't do it sooner," he said in an interview yesterday. "Of course, Puerto Rico is a very beautiful place, but more importantly, the Latin American culture there is so strong, guitar tradition quite essential, and so many similar people to share these feelings with."
In October, he will release his 20th album on the Concord label. It spans styles from baroque to American and features large orchestral works.
"I'm so excited about these orchestral pieces," he said. "There's such diversity in it, yet so much to learn and try. See, I'm a musician who actually listens to my own music even while I'm playing.
"It's very nice to be able to enjoy the process and the product at these little moments of creation."
Virtuosity
Who: Carlos Barbosa-Lima
