Published on February 8, 2017 by Ashley Smith  
assad bros

Samford University’s School of the Arts will showcase two spring events as part of the Davis Architects Guest Artist Series.

On Tuesday, Feb. 21, The Assad Brothers will appear in Brock Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m., as well as participate in master classes for School of the Arts students. 

According to Joe Hopkins, School of the Arts dean, the Brazilian-born brothers Sergio and Odair Assad are “two of the finest guitarists on the planet, the best duo in the history of the instrument, and we get to hear them together in Birmingham. They have established the standard for all others. Their music is so compelling and persuasive. Be ready to be stunned by the beauty of their artistry.” 

The performance will include original compositions by Sergio Assad, as well as a variety of jazz, folk and Latin-inspired pieces. Their repertoire is a melting pot of different cultures and periods. The Assad Brothers have collaborated with artists across the globe and have an ongoing project with cellist Yo-Yo Ma.

The New York Times describes their music chemistry, saying, “Because they have been performing together for most of their lives, and because they play from memory, there is a lively interaction between them that creates the impression that they are improvising like a couple of virtuosic, perhaps even telepathic, jazz players.”

Additionally, the Sotto Voce Tuba Quartet will be featured on March 28 with Samford faculty member Demondrae Thurman.

These concerts round out a year of internationally acclaimed guest musicians that have provided inspiration to students and faculty alike, Hopkins added. 

Tickets

Ashley Smith is marketing and communication coordinator for Samford Arts. 

 
Samford is a leading Christian university offering undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts with an array of nationally recognized graduate and professional schools. Founded in 1841, Samford is the 87th-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Samford enrolls 6,101 students from 45 states, Puerto Rico and 16 countries in its 10 academic schools: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health. Samford fields 17 athletic teams that compete in the tradition-rich Southern Conference and ranks 6th nationally for its Graduation Success Rate among all NCAA Division I schools.