April 19, 2024
Musical Connections: Clarice and Sergio Assad in Concert
Event Details
Welcome to an evening of music performed in our stunning Simms Center for the Performing Arts. We are in for a real treat.
As we gather, it is impossible not to reflect on the indelible mark left by the Assad family in the realm of music. The legacy of Sérgio and Odair Assad, known affectionately as the Assad Brothers, resonates deeply within the hearts of countless musicians, including myself. Their recordings have served as beacons of transcendent beauty, artistry, and passion, spurring my generation of guitarists onto a single-minded pursuit of great music-making, modeled after their perfection.
Generations of guitarists have revered the Assad Brothers, aspiring to emulate their unparalleled mastery and grace on the concert stage. Here at Albuquerque Academy, their influence is palpable, with esteemed alumni such as Adam Larison ’03, David Gonzales ’04, Elliot Simpson ’05, Eric Sandoval ’09, Tony Mariano ’11, Natalka Georgievova ’13, and Sydd Urgola ’14 having studied under Sérgio’s guidance at the San Francisco Conservatory. Many more of our students have had the privilege of participating in Sérgio’s masterclasses worldwide, sharing in his genius for interpreting music on the guitar.
Now, a new chapter unfolds as we forge a meaningful connection with Sérgio’s daughter, the remarkable Clarice Assad. A luminary in her own right, Clarice embodies the essence of consummate musicianship, infusing every note with a profound love for life and artistic expression. Through the Levanta Institute at Albuquerque Academy, we are honored to welcome Clarice for the first time to Albuquerque Academy.
This concert marks the culmination of the Levanta Institute’s inaugural season, a celebration of music, education, and artistic innovation. To each of you, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for joining us. As we set our sights on the horizon, know that the Levanta Institute is poised to achieve even greater heights, guided by our unwavering commitment to musical excellence and artistic innovation.