Freddy Clarke
Guitar - Vocals - Composer - Producer
Born in Fresno, California, Freddy studied classical guitar at San Francisco State University with Rani Cochran and privately with Narcisso Yepes,Rey De La Torre and Leo Brower. He studied composition with Gus Gustavson,Roger Nixon and Peter Sacco with an emphasis on form and technique. Igor Stravinski and John Cage are two influences who have helped shape his vision. Stravinski for his creative approach to unusual instrumental combinations and sonorities and John Cage for his fascination with random events superseding preconceived notions allowing freedom of expression through improvisation. No composition is ever "finished".The acoustic meets the electronic, sounds taken from another place and time then reintegrated into the present is a relatively new concept utilizing digital samplers and drum machines. Freddy's dad built 50 flamenco and classical guitars,the first one being his favourite and most used on his solo recordings. His mother , Peal Clarke, is an exceptional singer specializing in mexican folk songs. They have recorded a CD together titled "Recuerdos De Mi Mama".Freddy's solo performances and original compositions have likened him to "Segovia on acid" and "the Kenny G of flamenco guitar" and "Smashing Pumpkins meets Gypsy Kings".