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South American
Harp & Cuatro Duo

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Cliona and Iván have played at Sydney's South American Festival, Bondi and also at Cafe Carnivale where they focused mainly on Llaneros music from Iván's native Venezuela.

The cuatro - a four stringed guitar-like instrument - is a perfect companion to the harp, providing complex chordal richness as well as a strong rhythmic drive. Iván also sings from a wide repertoire of South American songs.

Cliona and Iván can also perform together with violinist Henry Avila.

For a taste of some of these rhythms see YouTube.

 




Alliance Francaise, August 2006
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About Iván Vivas
Born in San Cristóbal - Venezuela. Iván started to develop a passionate interest for the folklorical treasure hidden in the complex musical rhythms of his native country when he was only 12 years old. He was particularly fascinated by the richness of the melodic chords of the Venezuelan Cuatro, a four strings instrument that has accompanied him in his travels around the world.



His approach to folklore music is unique in that he was capable of developing his own style which reached maturity and definition while away from home, albeit he acknowledges the influence of prominent Venezuelan Cuatro Players of the stature of Freddy Reyna, Hernan Gamboa, and Cheo Hurtado.

He continues to play the Venezuelan Cuatro with greater excitement and enthusiasm as he adds a well-defined touch of class to his solos and his work with well-known and respected musicians in Sydney.

Iván considers that it is through these rich exchanges with his musician friends and the concert audiences that he contributes to the great multicultural diversity that Australia enjoys.



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