THE GUITAR WHISPERER
The Guitar Whisperer is a constantly evolving concert which displays the talents of the UK’s most imaginative & restless guitarist.
Richard Durrant’s constantly evolving Guitar Whisperer show proves that the classical guitar still has something to say. The UK’s most imaginative guitarist takes a prismatic look at the guitar in this piece of beautifully presented musical theatre. Each performance takes the classical instrument as its starting point, but then, from the relative safety of familiar, virtuoso repertoire, the audience is taken on a journey into an astounding, sensory world. The growing army of Richard Durrant fans come from both inside and far outside the classical world, the man's ever changing and developing repertoire ensures this wide appeal will continue.
The Guitar Whisperer includes several, specially commissioned, animated films from British film makers which accompany the music. Richard also ocassionally uses foot samplers and other effects - but there are totally acoustic moments as well. At one point Richard performs on a 19th century guitar, duetting with his onscreen self filmed playing the earliest surviving guitar by CF Martin I. This Martin guitar is an iconic piece of musical history brought to life in the most skillful and ingenious way. There is also JS Bach performed on the ukulele. Another highlight is Richard’s take on Andy Cuttings Spaghetti Panic, whilst the show finale is unmissable: an ingenious and beautiful version of Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells played to footage of the Apollo moon landings.
Stage and lighting design is by Bill Hammond (currently also stage manager for Rambert Dance Company, but also former UK technical director for the Kirov and Bolshoi Ballet).
Venues visited by Richard on recent Guitar Whisperer tours include:
Welsh Proms, St Davids Hall Cardiff, Theatre Severn, Clwyd Theatr Cymru, The Stables Wavendon, Birmingham Conservatoire, De La Warr Pavilion,
New Wolsey Ipswich, Chichester Minerva Theatre, Lakeside Theatre Nottingham, Yvonne Arnuad Guildford, NCEM York, Brunton Theatre Musselburgh, Howden Park Theatre Livingston, Rose Theatre Kingston, Theatre by the Lake Keswick, Purcell Room London, Teatro Municipal, Asucion, Paraguay
“Richard Durrantʼs “Guitar Whisperer” exceeded all audience targets in Guildford...it was noticeable that the show attracted people from far and wide, young and old who were spellbound by Richard's prodigious talent. His music choices are aimed at popularity as well as the fine. Our audience left with smiles on their faces, we will rebook this show without hesitation.This was a superb evening, Richard is a fantastic artist.” Brian Kirk, Manager Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford
“One is left with the impression of a man who loves music and life in equal measure.” Gramophone Magazine 2011
“Not only does the Guitar Whisperer reveal Durrantʼs exceptional ability, it also brings to light his artful arrangements, to add to the jaw dropping (and humorous) live performance.” Guitar & Bass Magazine 2010
“Extraordinary virtuosity… A simply unmissable treat.” Classic FM Magazine 2009
“Amongst the greats of instrumental performance…”
Properganda Magazine 2009
“Flawless and mesmerising…” Acoustic Magazine 2009
"The last few decades have seen the emergence of whole schools of very clever young guitarists. All comparisons are futile, just be sure to make a date with Richard Durrant wherever he is, and whatever the weather. You will not see his like anywhere else." Newbury Weekly News, 2010
