Billy Novick and Guy Van Duser (Monthly Program)

Instrumental wizards at the junction of folk, swing, and the roots of jazzGuy Van Duser and Billy Novick transcend the limits of any particular genre while displaying a deep musical understanding for the the forms and traditions of blues, swing (for which they are renowned), celtic music, New Orleans jazz, and one or two novelties that they keep up their sleeves. Masters of their instruments, these guys can do just about anything they want -- Van Duser's finger-style "stride" guitar and Novick's clarinet and alto sax (or pennywhistle) can play it straight or go places these sounds aren't usually found (such as Van Duser's solo guitar version of "Stars and Stripes Forever" or Novick's pennywhistle rendition of "Rhapsody in Blue," which has to be heard to be believed).Guy Van Duser is arguably the best finger-style guitar player living in the United States, Since the passing of Chet Atkins, that claim has gotten even stronger. Simultaneously playing bass lines, chords, and melody, he has elevated the swing-style guitar from its traditional rhythmic-accompaniment style, leaving audiences amazed that so much music can come from a single guitar. With his daring imagination, breathtaking technique, and his wonderful musicality, Guy has become an inspiration for guitarists all over the world.Billy Novick plays clarinet, tin whistles, and saxophone (and even sings in between). His warm, aged-in-the wood tone, huge dynamic range, and lyric melody sense make him one of the most exciting woodwind players around today. Novick's ever-inventive and soulful clarinet playing provides the ideal complement to Guy's guitar. With his vast knowledge of the classic jazz era, his dazzling improvising skills, and his entertaining vocals, Novick is able to add both a melodic and dynamic spark to Guy's guitar.Billy and Guy have been a duo since 1976; their long partnership has allowed them to develop a musical telepathy, and they keep their musical marriage fresh by constantly playing off each other.They've performed everywhere from folk festivals to "A Prairie Home Companion," and they play the theme song for PBS's "Antiques Roadshow." They have been featured on Mason Daring's soundtracks to John Sayles's movies, and the theme song of PBS's "This Old House" (which they composed).Come hear these two incredible musicians as we coaxed them to give one of their rare performances outside of the Boston area!"Guy … has practically invented a finger-picked guitar style closer to jazz piano than guitar. Billy Novick on clarinet, had he live the 30's, would be a legend." -Boston Globe