Graham Devine
Graham Devine
Research Pathway:
PhD Creative Practice: Music
Research Supervisors:
Dr Aleks Szram
Dr Dario van Gammeren
Dr Ann van Allen Russell (external)
Research Title:
‘How many strings? A methodological approach to the performance of Johann Sebastian Bach’s BWV 995-1006a on the expanded multi-string guitar
Research Topic Outline:
‘How many strings? A methodological approach to the performance of Johann Sebastian Bach’s BWV 995-1006a on the expanded multi-string guitar’ is a creative research project that uses a multi-mode Practise as Research (PaR) methodology to explore Bach’s so-called lute works as transcriptions for the eleven-string guitar through self-reflective practice. The research presents the works in performance score transcriptions for the eleven-string guitar and a performance guide that discusses tunings, ornamentation, interpretation, and an approach to detailed fingering. This is then documented through a studio recording performed by this author on the eleven-string guitar of the complete BWV 995-1006a compositions by Johann Sebastian Bach.
Biography
Graham Anthony Devine was born in England and began his musical studies at Chetham’s School of Music, Manchester studying guitar with Gordon Crosskey. At 19 years old, Graham relocated to Brazil where he lived for almost a decade giving many recitals and masterclasses throughout South America during this period. Widely considered as one of the best guitarists of his generation, Graham is currently in much demand as a recitalist and concerto soloist. He has performed at many of the world’s leading recital venues such as Wigmore Hall (London), Purcell Room (London), Palau de la Musica (Valencia), Hakuju Hall (Tokyo) and Phoenix Hall (Osaka). He has also been invited to give masterclasses at festivals and musical institutes throughout the world. His huge repertoire covers music from the renaissance period to most major twentieth century works written for the guitar, including rarely performed masterpieces such as Maurice Ohana’s compositions for ten-string guitar. Graham plays exclusively on D’Addario strings. Graham is currently Head of Guitar at Trinity Laban. He is also the Artistic Director of the Royal Greenwich Guitar Festival.