Amadeus Guitar Duo – a harmony of talent and tradition
The Amadeus Guitar Duo
The Amadeus Guitar Duo, formed by Canadian guitarist Dale Kavanagh and German guitarist Thomas Kirchhoff, is one of the leading ensembles in the world of classical guitar. For more than three decades, their shared artistry has united precision, warmth and expressive depth.
Formation and artistic journey
Founded in 1991, the duo grew from the collaboration of two accomplished soloists who discovered in each other a perfect musical counterpart. Their partnership is built on mutual respect and a shared vision of exploring the full expressive range of the guitar duo. They have performed in many of the world’s renowned concert halls, including the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Staatsoper in Berlin and the Konzerthaus in Vienna, as well as throughout Europe, Asia and North America.
Repertoire and style
Their repertoire extends from Baroque and Classical works to Romantic and contemporary compositions. The duo performs original works for two guitars alongside their own arrangements of pieces by composers such as J. S. Bach, Isaac Albéniz and Astor Piazzolla.
Kavanagh and Kirchhoff collaborate with contemporary composers who have written and dedicated works to them, including Roland Dyens, Stephen Dodgson and Gerhard Reichenbach. Their approach balances individuality with perfect ensemble unity, resulting in performances marked by clarity, sensitivity and balance.
International acclaim and collaborations
Over the course of their career, the Amadeus Guitar Duo has given more than 1,500 concerts worldwide. Their tours have taken them to Japan, China, Russia, the United States and Brazil, where audiences and critics alike have praised their precision, expressiveness and musical connection.
They collaborate frequently with orchestras and chamber ensembles such as the Prague Chamber Orchestra, the Moscow Philharmonic and the Philharmonia Hungarica, enriching their performances with additional tonal and stylistic dimensions.
Recordings and discography
The duo has recorded more than 18 albums, reflecting the breadth of their musical interests. Their recordings include works by Scarlatti, Giuliani and Castelnuovo-Tedesco, as well as contemporary compositions written especially for them.
Highlights include La Vida Breve, featuring Spanish works by de Falla and Rodrigo, Baroque Moments with interpretations of Baroque repertoire, and Concertos for Two Guitars, recorded with leading orchestras around the world.
Education and festival work
Beyond the stage, Dale Kavanagh and Thomas Kirchhoff are dedicated teachers. Both are professors at the Detmold Music Academy in Germany, where they mentor and train young guitarists.
They are also founders and artistic directors of the International Guitar Symposium in Iserlohn, one of the most respected guitar festivals worldwide. The festival brings together performers, composers and students, fostering artistic exchange and education.
Legacy
Through their performances, recordings and teaching, the Amadeus Guitar Duo has shaped the modern landscape of classical guitar. Their combination of technical mastery and genuine musical communication continues to inspire audiences and musicians across generations.
More information: www.amadeusduo.com
