Stephen Magnusson is one of the most accomplished, versatile and distinctive musicians in Australia. His incredible technique and astoundingly beautiful tone on his instrument have made him an indispensable part of many bands and film scores. His astute and thorough knowledge of music have also made him an in-demand teacher and lecturer at Monash University, NMIT & VCA. For most of the ’90’s Stephen lived in Switzerland performing with his bands SNAG and Facelifter at major festivals and clubs throughout Europe. During this time in Europe, Stephen was awarded the Swiss Diagonal Arts Grant and the Pop Kredit award with the band SNAG and also received rave reviews for his performances. Stephen spent time studying with Mick Goodrick and Jerry Bergonzi at the New England Conservatory.
Stephen returned to Australia in 2000 to perform and record with his trio at the Wangaratta Jazz Festival where he was co-winner of the National Jazz Award. Since then he has been nominated twice for the Freedman Fellowship, produced Martin Breeze’s album, Blackbird, released Boundaries, Healing Songs, assumptions2 & departures by assumptions on Newmarket Records, and recorded “For Elvin” with the Ted Vining Trio. He has also released his new album MAG and in the process of releasing a new solo album. He has performed recently with Elixar, Paul Kelly and james Morrison. He has also been involved in playing & co-producing albums for Alison Wedding, Lisa Young & Christine Sullivan, worked on movie soundtracks with Paul Grabowsky, produced soundtracks for film and worked with Ruby Hunter, Archie Roach & the Australian Art Orchestra on Ruby’s Story.
I was in your lecture at ANU earlier this year and at the concert with the student ensemble that night. (I'm a voice major, studying with Vince). Just wanted to say thanks for all your valuable advice and insight. Very inspiring! Highlight for me was your interpretation of the Peter Gabriel tune! Amazing!!! Always loved that song (Don't Give Up) and it was kind of ruined for me when it was re-released recently by a couple of famous Aussie singers (no names needed....). You made me fall in love with the song all over again! Thanks so much!
Hey, Tony Gould told me to see you about learning guitar from you...he was saying you were the best to see for contemp. Jazz, experimental etc.. Are you availiable in Melbourne next year for Guitar Lessons for someone thats played Guitar for around 10 yrs predominantly jazz? Just a queery....
Cannot wait for Sylent Running... shall be sweet, catch, deen
Hey Steve, was just thinking about when you played a couple of sting tunes with Alison at Bennetts ages ago. They were so great, i still think about them. hope youre well
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