Bachianas Americanas is a suite for solo guitar utilizing traditional Baroque dance forms that incorporate contemporary harmonic and melodic material found in American jazz and folk music.
The recording above features Hall himself on the guitar.
John Hall was born in Detroit 1955. He is a graduate of Wayne State University in Detroit where he studied guitar with Charles Postlewate and Joe Fava and received advanced training in music theory as a graduate student under Richard Parks.
He is an active performer and teacher. He says he has always believed that versatility is critical to making a living in music.
John’s compositions and arrangements have been published by Mel Bay Publications, Editions Orphee and Willis Music Co. His book of etudes titled Influences combines the harmonic characteristics of jazz with the classical concepts of voice-leading and counterpoint and are meant to serve as transitional material between the studies of Carcassi/Sor and the etudes of Villa-Lobos.
Hall has served as a university instructor for over 20 years, and is currently on the faculty of Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan.
For a full bio or to order John's music--including the score for Bachianas Americanas--visit John Hall's website.