For anyone who thought the three B's -- Bach, Beethoven and Brahms -- wrote only symphonies and church music, they are in for a surprise with Environs by the Pedrick-Hutson Guitar Duo. David Pedrick and Jeremy Hutson not only show listeners another side to the composers, they show another side to the guitar as well.

These two teachers are dedicated to preserving the past while embracing the future. Pedrick and Hutson accomplish their task by passing on what they have learned to their students and fans.

Their task is also accomplished with this, the duo's second CD. Fourteen of the 22 tracks are dedicated to the classical compositions of Bach, Beethoven and Brahms. The latter third of the CD is original material written in a more modern style. While the works demonstrate the virtuosity of both composer and performer, the pieces seem a little out of place among the works of the Baroque and Romantic eras.

Environs is a must-have for anyone who is interested in guitar technique and the virtuosity of the instrument.

- Rambles
written by Sherrill Fulghum
published 17 April 2004

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