Leonard Grigoryan is well-established in the Australian music scene. He has made his name as a collaborator at the highest levels of music making.

 

As its name implies, ‘Solo’ is Leonard’s first release focusing on his own performance and writing. 

 

“I recorded ‘Solo’ at the legendary Rainbow Studio’s in Oslo,” says Leonard. ’It was truly a privilege to work in this amazing space but also with an engineer who was part of some of the greatest recordings in musical history. What seemed like a potentially daunting experience turned out to be exactly the opposite. I felt totally supported by, and at ease with the great Jan Erik Kongshaug. It was a calm and creatively satisfying experience.”

 

The CD features four pieces composed by Leonard:  'Sarabande and Gigue' are the first two solo pieces composed by Leonard. They are based on baroque forms and are influenced by the Bach Lute Suites.  'Blues for Ralph' is an homage to one of his all-time musical heroes Ralph Towner, while 'Possibly Maybe' was inspired by the anticipation and excitement of going to Norway to record the album, juxtaposed by the uncertainty of what was to come.  Leonard has also recorded his favourite Ralph Towner piece, The Reluctant Bride: “For a classical guitarist, Towner’s work is a link to the world of improvisation.”

 

The remainder of the album is music from South America by Villa-Lobos, Barrios and Gnattali: “While maintaining a classical sensibility, South American music blends contemporary harmonies and rhythms in a way I find inspiring.”