UA guitar guru Tom Patterson is convinced that David Russell is the best classical guitarist in the world.
He may be right if sold-out recitals and critical acclaim are the barometers. Russell's yearly University of Arizona concerts, part of his annual springtime artist-in-residence gigs, are huge successes; and reviewers worldwide stumble over themselves with glowing praise of his technical prowess, charisma and power to captivate an audience.
"He is in my opinion the greatest guitar soloist and teacher in the world," Patterson said.
Russell will return to the UA's Holsclaw Hall for two concerts this weekend - 7 p.m. Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday - as part of his fourth UA residency. He will then spend next week holding free nightly master classes from 6 to 9 and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 13 for all comers. To register or for more information, call Patterson at 621-1157 or e-mail him at rtp@email.arizona.edu
The Scotland native makes the annual journey to Tucson from his home in Spain, where he is an in-demand guitarist. In an interview with the Star in 2008, though, Russell said he preferred American audiences, which were enthusiastic toward him and the music.
Patterson said the response is even more enthusiastic in Tucson, where folks such as Russell and the famous Assad Brothers - also annual visitors to the UA - draw sold-out audiences.
"Tucson is really savvy with classical guitar. We have a strong, strong group of admirers of the instrument who really understand what's going on," Patterson said.
Tickets to Russell's concert, co-sponsored by the Tucson Guitar Society, cost $30, with discounts available, at arizona.tix.com or by calling 621-1162.
