Highly renowned Canadian classical guitarist Emma Rush is set to captivate audiences with the release of her latest album, A Dream of Colour is inspired by the life and works of impressionist painter, William Blair Bruce. Collaborating once again with her long-time producer Kirk Starkey, Rush recorded the album in her hometown of Hamilton, Ontario.
The well-travelled classical artist’s new record features daring new music by esteemed Canadian composers, all beautifully capturing the essence of Bruce’s artwork. While growing up, she developed a deep connection to fellow Hamiltonian William Blair Bruce’s paintings, which decorated her family’s homes and the Art Gallery of Hamilton. Motivated by family ties to the celebrated artist, she embarked on a musical journey, inviting composers to interpret Bruce’s work through sound.
“All the music on this album is brand new and written by Canadians,” says Rush. “It was an incredible opportunity to collaborate with these amazing composers, bringing their works to life and exploring the profound connection between music and visual art.”
The album opens with Christine Donkin’s “Moonlight in Canada,” inspired by one of Rush’s favourite painting housed in the permanent collection of the Art Gallery of Hamilton. Another standout composition is Christina Volpini’s “The Walker of the Snow,” a haunting piece that mirrors the iconic painting “The Phantom Hunter” with innovative use of the guitar. One of the album’s highlights is a piece by acclaimed composer Dale Kavanagh, “Reflections on Afterglow.” Rush, who studied with Kavanagh in Germany, always admired her library of enchanting original pieces and dreamed of having one written specifically for her.
The three-time Hamilton Arts award winner emphasizes the significance of presenting new music to the guitar world. “With every album, I strive to offer something different. I’m thrilled to present seven exciting pieces that have never been heard before,” she says.
Emma Rush has established herself as one of Canada’s top classical guitarists, commanding worldwide recognition with recent tours to China, Mexico, Sweden, and Germany. The Hamiltonian has released several albums, including “Wake the Sigh,” a rare collection of music written for guitar by women in the 19th century. She has received support from prestigious organizations such as the Canada Council for the Arts, Ontario Arts Council, Arts Nova Scotia, and FACTOR. Emma is also a highly in-demand guest lecturer and Co-Director of GuitarFest West in Calgary and the Collegiate Peaks Guitar Retreat in Colorado.
Listen to Emma Rush’s music on Spotify and YouTube.
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