Claude Bourbon
Romantic medieval & Spanish blues...
Finger-picking guitar & Songs
Born in France in the early 60’s, Claude Bourbon grew up in Switzerland, where he was classically trained for many years. This finger picking guitarist has performed and studied all over the world; he has crafted an unbelievable fusion of classical and jazz, with ethereal Eastern influences, Spanish and Latin elements with strains of Western folk.
The unique Monsieur Bourbon is a formidable performer. He may have his roots in the blues, but he is inspired by music and song from all around the world, taking these sounds and weaving them into a performance of blues, rock, jazz, songs and melodies that defy a label, all delivered with a gravely voice.
Claude’s inimitable style incorporates all five digits on each hand dancing independently but in unison, plucking, picking and strumming at such speed and precision that his fingers often seem to melt into a blur. Thousands of people in the UK, Europe and USA have enjoyed listening to this virtuoso and for the majority of his audience it is an experience that compels them to return again and again to hear and watch him play, as his fingers lightly dance over the strings of his guitar and create a unique sound that is ’Claude’.
Starting to play guitar at the age of 15, it was the strains of an instrumental version of ‘House of the Rising Sun’ seeping from a neighbour’s garage that ignited the fire in Claude’s soul. He then studied classical guitar for a period, but soon realised that his feeling was more for improvisation than written music, “…as the music is a tool to express yourself…”.
Now based in the UK, some of this guitarists’ influences allow us a fascinating insight into this remarkable musician; Paco De Lucia: Deep Purple’s Richie Blackmore; Joaquin Rodrigo; JJ Cale, Monty Python; JS Bach and Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks….
One reviewer even noted that although “Claude’s roots were in blues, that is like saying Leonardo da Vinci was a painter”. Intrigued?
Claude has played countless venues, performing with several top international musicians including sax player STEVE GROSSMAN (Miles Davis band) and drummer CHARLIE MORGAN (Elton John, Gary Moore).
"...So here we have another fine example of the prodigious talent which is treading the boards in UK clubs. That said, if you see his name flagged up in your area, go along – based on this set you could be in for a very entertaining night."
Roy Bainton, Blues Matters , UK – March 2009
“…This accomplished artist offers tender, compelling performance through highly developed precision. His sound instantly creates ambience – from haunting Spanish moods to lyrical, romantic jazz, Claude Bourbon provides both a rich evening of music for lovers, and a real treat for music lovers…”, BBC, UK
"Claude Bourbon is a unique figure today…his playing is almost indescribable“. The Hook, Charlottesville, USA"
Hi Claude! Hope all is well. I thought I'd let you know about tuesdays gig at Havant Art Centre (The Spring). Sally Strawberry is appearing with Charlie Fabert and friends. Charlie's a really great young player from France. I'll be opening the show ith a solo set.
Great show yesterday in Sarstedt :) I love your guitarplaying, very very great :) All the best to you and your family and all who loves you. See you later alligator Love and peace Tutti
What an incredible show...and such a treat to meet you, Marielle and Zachary! I'm already looking forward to seeing (and hearing) you in June of 2011. Thank you for such a great show! Coolwater looks forward to your return....
Hi Claude Thank you so much for MS friendship. Thank you for sharing your music! It..s really beautiful! If you find the time please don't forget to check our music! Wish you a great week! Tomas/ Eggs & Dogs
Thanks Claude. Really enjoyed lying back in the sun chilling out to to your music at Bentworth (that's why I didn't take a photo of you playing to add to my folder of pics of the weekend - sorry about that, you made me relax too much!!) All the best.
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