Steve Cowan | Jérôme Ducharme | Christ Habib | Louis Trépanier
Since its debut in 1999, the Canadian Guitar Quartet (CGQ) has performed on three continents, going from one standing ovation to the next, and established a reputation as one of the finest guitar ensembles in the world. During its twenty-plus years, the CGQ has released four critically acclaimed albums while touring extensively in Canada and abroad, appearing in recitals and with orchestras. The CGQ’s first concert in New York City, presented as part of the 92nd Street Y Art of the Guitar series, was extremely well received. Don Witter Jr., of the New York City Classical Guitar Society, wrote: “The Canadian Guitar Quartet made one of the greatest New York City debuts of any artistic ensemble in decades . . . STUNNING!!!”
As well as performing and recording, the CGQ continues to mentor and direct young guitarists through clinics, masterclasses, and one-on-one teaching. While personnel changes have occurred over the years, the ensemble has remained committed to its core mission: chamber music at its highest level by presenting a robust mix of classical masterworks in clever new arrangements alongside bold original works for guitar quartet—most often penned by past and present members of the ensemble. The engaging repertoire, the CGQ’s fiery virtuosity and the players’ easy and congenial rapport with the audience all make a Canadian Guitar Quartet concert an event to remember. The Canadian Guitar Quartet plays Knobloch strings.
