12 Street Music

Classical 12 String Steel: Elizabethan, Baroque, and Finger-Style Music

This is a collection of Elizabethan, Renaissance and modern selections, played on this unique instrument. Selections include works by John Dowland, Girolamo Frescobaldi, Robert Johnson, J.S. Bach, Antonio Vivaldi and original compositions by Jason Kessler.

Sample Tracks:
• 9. Captain Digorie Piper's Galliard (John Dowland 1562-1626)
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• 10. My Lady Hunsdon's Puffe (John Dowland 1562-1626)
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• 24. Concerto in D Major for Guitar and Strings (Antonio Vivaldi 1678-1741)
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...an impressive reworking of time honored forms associated with Elizabethan & Renaissance music...

...Kessler lovingly reinterprets these works with technical precision and artistic virtuosity...

...Vivaldi's Corrente shines in Kessler's hands...

...Classical 12-String Steel exudes a fresh, immediate sound...

- Larry Hoyt, The Syracuse New Times - Oct 21, 1998

Because of the steel strings, a great deal of effort went into adjusting the neck of the instrument in order to make it possible to perform the more difficult pieces. In addition, adjustments regarding approaches to string attacks and nail lengths were carefully considered over a two year period. Many thanks to luthier George Lowden and the fine instrument repair skills of Bob MacBlane.

The other 12-string guitar heard on this program is a Yamaha APX-9-12 (not pictured) tuned in fifths. The tuning and this particular guitar combine to make a brilliant, sparkling sound which can be heard on the selections "Song for Alonso" and "Sunshower".

The Double String Duo: Music of the Rennaisance/Music of Today

Learn more about the Double String Duo.

This recording is currently on backorder. If you are interested in purchasing it, send us an email and we will let you know when it is available.

Sample Tracks:
• 1. Alman (Robert Johnson)
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• 2. My Lord Wilobe's Welcome Home (John Dowland)
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• 16. Prelude no. 2 [Harpsichord, transcribed for two guitars] (J.S. Bach)
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I not only admired it, but really enjoyed it as well! ...the rhythm and melodic nature of this music was captured by the combination of the bass and the steel strings of the guitar in a way I have never heard before.

- George Lowden

The clarity and strength of the music shines through with these amazing performances. Jason's work on the twelve string is nothing short of miraculous and Richard matches this with flawless musical bass accompaniment and solos. A refreshing and rewarding duo.

- Gene Bertoncini