September 30, 2005

LIVINGSTON, Ala.—University of West Alabama guitar instructor John DeChiaro will perform a free recital featuring an array of musical styles Oct. 20 at 7 p.m. at UWA’s Bell Conference Center. UWA choral director and Sumter County native John Brown will join DeChiaro, singing several pieces for the concert.

DeChiaro, who played for the late Pope John Paul II in 1994, will play Scott Joplin piano rags that he transcribed for guitar. The New York native has transcribed, recorded and published 52 Joplin piano rag scores. In addition, the recital will also showcase a wide variety of numbers, from The Eagles’ “Hotel California” to Spanish pieces by Tarrega.

“A lot of people think classical guitarists just play classical music,” said DeChiaro. “That is not true. I’m teaching my students here that they can play anything.”

Brown, who is also the Director of Worship Arts at Livingston First Presbyterian Church, will sing four English songs while DeChiaro accompanies him on the guitar. Brown stressed the importance of performance.

“We want to encourage everyone, especially all students, to attend,” said Brown. “It is so valuable for them to see their teachers perform.”

DeChiaro, who is in his second year as an instructor at UWA, singled out other notable recital pieces. He called a Carlos Domeniconi song bases on Turkish hymn music “hypnotic and mesmerizing.”

“I fell in love with this song the first time I heard it. I had to learn how to play it!” said DeChiaro.

Selections will also include “Pavane” by Faure and “Bachianas Brasileros #5.” DeChiaro and Brown both reiterated the performance will showcase a variety of styles to suit many tastes.

DeChiaro retired after 25 years at the University of Southern Mississippi before joining the UWA faculty. He has played two concerts for former President Bill Clinton and seven recitals at Carnegie Hall. DeChiaro has 10 CDs on Centaur Records and numerous publications with Mel Bay Publications.  

DeChiaro and Brown will also perform at the Coleman Center for Cultural Arts Friday, Oct. 21 at 7 p.m. Both recitals are free and open to the public, and refreshments will be available after the performances.