The Assad Brothers Guitar Duo will perform as part of the Virtuoso Series at Gardner Hall Thursday night.
Born in Brazil, Srgio and Odair Assad began their musical education on the guitar 40 years ago to accompany their father, a self-taught mandolin player.
The brothers each have separate roles: Odair Assad is the more skilled musician, and Srgio Assad is a composer and arranger.
Their passion for music has already been passed down to the next generation: Srgio Assad’s daughter is also a composer.
The brothers’ unusual style has inspired contemporary composers to write music for their particular configuration of instruments. The brothers have also collaborated with famed cellist Yo-Yo Ma, clarinetist Paquito D’Rivera and violinist Gidon Kremer.
In addition to performing Srgio Assad’s original works, the brothers are conversant with Spanish music, Gypsy swing, classical European works and South American music. Winners of a Latin Grammy, the brothers are renowned for their brilliant performances and beautiful ability to blend sounds.