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Guitar virtuoso Matthew Cochran joins TC Phil for 'Concierto de Aranjuez'

Guitarist Matthew Cochran
Guitarist Matthew Cochran

"Three Amigos Visit Spain" features Matthew Cochran and friends performing Spanish orchestral classics including Rodrigo’s beloved guitar concerto.

This Sunday, guitarist Matthew Cochran will perform Joaquín Rodrigo's "Concierto de Aranjuez" with the Traverse City Philharmonic as part of a program highlighting renowned Spanish works from the 20th century.

He is part of a trio of musical friends and soloists in "Three Amigos Visit Spain," joining TC Phil principal pianist Dorothy Vogel and principal bassist Gary Gatzke.

Matthew Cochran describes "Concierto de Aranjuez" as "very much the mountain top of the guitar repertoire," emphasizing that the piece’s success lies in how the guitar solo weaves in and out of the orchestral texture. He adds, "Writing for the guitar really requires a deft hand from the composer to orchestrate in a way that allows the guitar to cut through."

Guitarist Matthew Cochran inside IPR's Studio B.
Guitarist Matthew Cochran inside IPR's Studio B.

Cochran's appearance in "Three Amigos Visit Spain" is this Sunday, March 16, at 3 p.m. at Interlochen's Corson Auditorium. The program features Manuel de Falla's "Nights in the Gardens of Spain" and "Ritual Fire Dance," Frank Proto's "Carmen Fantasy" and Matthew Cochran performing the "Concierto de Aranjuez" by Joaquín Rodrigo.

Discover more about the upcoming concert by streaming Matthew Cochran's conversation with IPR host Nancy Deneen — click "Listen" at the top of the page.

Scott Clemens is Classical IPR's Digital Content Producer and host of Afternoon Classical.