Join classical guitarists Matthew Grasso and Sean O'Connor for an eclectic, original program of solos and duos for extended 7-string and 11-string alto guitars at monca on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 7PM (doors open at 6:30).
The program will include transcriptions of Weiss and Couperin, original compositions by Grasso and O'Connor, works by contemporary master Andrew York, and improvisational duet versions of hit songs from the 1970s.
Matthew Grasso is classical guitarist, composer, arranger, musical instrument innovator, and improviser who began playing guitar at age twelve. He was a featured soloist with many regional symphonies and most notably with the Auburn Symphony Chamber Players. His recordings include nine CDs and has published a few articles in the area of multi-string and microtonal guitars through various online publications.
Grasso performs and lectures throughout Northern California, and is on the faculty at Sacramento City College, American River College, Yuba College, and formerly at California College of the Arts. Matthew Grasso is the high priest at the 7-string guitar church in Davis, California.
Sean O'Connor graduated magna cum laude from CSUS's music program under the tutelage of Grammy-nominated guitarist and lutenist Richard Savino, and since then has performed as a solo classical guitarist, in classical ensembles, rock bands, and a jazz guitar duo. He teaches over 45 private students and directs two community guitar orchestras for the Sacramento Guitar Society.
In 2023 O’Connor released his first classical album, Journey to Eleven, which features performances of baroque music by Weiss, Couperin, Zamboni, and Bach on the 11-string alto guitar. He also performs with the Multi String Guitar Ensemble, led by Matt Grasso, and is a member of the 7-string guitar church.
Tickets are $20 general admission and are available online, at the museum, and at the door.
All proceeds go toward monca’s community development and future events.
