The Gnossienne No. 1 by Satie (originally for piano) has a ghostly and ethereal quality, with the melody floating above a hypnotic chordal texture. The rhythm is almost dance-like, yet there are no bar lines in the score. The resultant swaying effect almost feels like an exotic waltz. The overall effect of the music is surreal & mysterious.
Satie is often credited as the pioneer of ambient music, a genre which allows the listener space for contemplation & reflection. Gareth’s transcription for classical guitar lends an intimate quality to the piece while adding a unique and plaintive soulfulness.
About Gareth
Gareth Koch is an ARIA Award winning multi-instrumentalist, recording artist, guitar soloist, composer & songwriter. He has recorded a sizeable repertory across multiple genres spanning works for classical guitar, flamenco, original compositions, arrangements, medieval projects, rock & songwriting. He has appeared at major festivals within Australia, Europe, Asia and North America.
Gareth is involved with many cross genre projects & has released a succession of collaborative albums with Martin Kennedy & with ARIA Hall of Fame inductee Steve Kilbey (The Church). His recent release ‘The Guitar Player’ received a coveted 5 star review from The Sydney Morning Herald. Gareth’s current output has a strong rock bias with classical overtones & his writing is increasingly focussed on the ethereal nature of music.
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