Programme info

EphenStephen is a classical guitar duo committed to the exploration of new and established repertoire within a unique musical vision. Their imaginative and stimulating recital programmes utilise the guitar's versatility and ability to appeal to a wide audience. EphenStephen’s repertoire ranges from new music commissions to ground-breaking transcriptions of classic works, to established guitar treasures.

EphenStephen’s experience and skill as arrangers and composers is a highlight of their concert programmes, which feature works from composers as diverse as the Beatles, Bach, Queen, Copland and Khachaturian. A dedication to new and Australian music is another feature of their concerts. Together they have premiered and commissioned many works, the latest of which was Steve Thorneycroft’s work Spin Cycle for two guitars, marimba and orchestra in 2008. Their new music repertoire also includes works by Westlake, Edwards, Houghton, Glyn & Reich.

Their concert presentation is engaging and relaxed and in the spirit of Chopin's famous quote "Nothing is more beautiful than a guitar, except, possibly, two."

"The many years of experience clearly shone through in their performances… very enjoyable concert." Christchurch Classical Guitar Society

"wonderful flair and freshness..." Ann Ghandar, composer.

"... a brilliant and profound musical experience..." Graeme Compton, director Keyplay Music Festival

“... versatility and musicality which has won widespread acclaim...” Border New

Biography

EphenStephen has toured extensively in Australia, in venues ranging from the Sydney Opera House to festivals, regional art galleries and conservatoriums. In 2006, as part of their first New Zealand tour, they were the featured artists at the Spring Strings Festival. EphenStephen’s recital of Australian and Welsh new music at the 2001 Sydney Spring Festival was recorded and broadcast by ABC Classic FM.

As individual players they regularly perform  as members of various other ensembles ranging from new music through to celtic, funk and surf, as well as giving solo recitals. They have performed concertos both individually and together and have both been finalists in the Australian Guitar Competition.

Recordings

EphenStephen has released two CDs to date: GUITARmidale, a selection of pieces commissioned from composers living in the Armidale area; and The Goldberg Variations, their transcription for two guitars of JS Bach’s monumental work. Both CDs have been broadcast extensively on regional ABC stations and ABC-Classic FM, the Goldberg Variations having been a featured CD in Julia Lester’s ‘Classic Drive’ programme.

Masterclasses & Workshops

Both Steves are dedicated educators and work closely with the New England Conservatorium of Music and the University of New England, where Steve Thorneycroft is also lecturer in composition.

EphenStephen is available to present workshops and masterclasses at primary and secondary schools, tertiary music schools and for the general community. Topics are negotiable, and can encompass standard classical guitar repertoire, improvisation and popular styles and ensemble performance.

Suggested Recital Programs

1. The Goldberg Variations
EphenStephen’s groundbreaking transcription for two guitars of J.S. Bach’s monumental work. This guitar duo arrangement lends an intimacy to the work, while still referencing the immediacy of the harpsichord and the variety of tone colours enjoyed on the piano. The recital’s duration is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, no interval.

2. Songs and Dances
A diverse program with repertoire from Rameau to Bartok, Copland, The Beatles and Queen. This is a standard recital with interval.

3. Standard Recital
Standard recital with interval but can be tailored for shorter concerts as required. The programme comprises an eclectic repertoire.