Biography / Manifesto

Deeply enamored with the sonority of their chosen instrument and relentlessly searching out the music most in harmony with their expressive sensibilities, Duo Orfeo brings to life a world of sound that is intimate, charming, subtle and haunting. Embracing a repertoire of compositions from largely forgotten byways of western musical tradition both past and present, and approaching this rare and diverse music through the medium of the classical guitar, Duo Orfeo creates performances and recordings that composer David Macbride has described as "the embodiment of grace and beauty."

Joe and Jamie met in 2001 as students of Phillip de Fremery, a pupil of Segovia and a beloved and admired teacher of the guitar. Discovering a musical kinship, the two began playing together. They recorded "The Grace Sessions" in 2005, which includes music of Bach, Brahms, Boccherini and Albéniz. Following a brief hiatus during which Joe and Jamie both finished their educations, at the Hartt School and Hampshire College respectively, they formed Duo Orfeo in 2007. Duo Orfeo has since performed at universities, churches and other venues throughout New England and New York City and in masterclasses for maestros Oscar Ghiglia and the Assad Brothers. The summer of 2009 saw the release of their album "Duo Orfeo", which features the music of Federico Mompou, Eric Satie and Frederic Chopin.

We look forward to our continuing experiment: bringing the highest standards of ensemble playing to our unique repertoire, reaching new audiences around the world, and exploring and expressing some small piece of the human story through the sounds we make on our guitars. Striving after the fleeting possibility of perfection that music offers allows us a glimpse into the mysteries of ourselves and the mysteries of the world. This is what we do. We sincerely hope that you hear us and enjoy.

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Duo Orfeo is available for concert performances, masterclasses, presentations, weddings, and functions.

Email - duoorfeo@gmail.com
Phone - 617.462.4101

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Duo Orfeo - Blog