Freddy Clarke

Born in Fresno, California, Freddy studied classical guitar at San Francisco State University with Rani Cochran and privately with Narcisso Yepes, Rey De La Torre and Leo Brower. He studied composition with Gus Gustavson, Roger Nixon and Peter Sacco with an emphasis on form and technique. Igor Stravinsky and John Cage are two influences that have helped shape his vision; Stravinsky, for his creative approach to unusual instrumental combinations and sonorities and John Cage for his fascination with random events superseding pre-conceived notions allowing freedom of expression through improvisation. Freddy is a consummate perfectionist; no composition is ever "finished”. The acoustic meets the electronic, sounds taken from another place and time then reintegrated into the present is a relatively new concept utilizing digital samplers and drum machines. On any given day, you will find him in his studio tweaking and fine tuning like Michelangelo on the Sistine Chapel. Freddy’s musical interest comes early on in his life. Freddy's dad built 50 flamenco and classical guitars, the first one being his favorite and most used on his solo recordings. His mother, Pearl Clarke, is an exceptional singer specializing in Mexican folk songs. When she sings it tugs on your heart as you can feel every emotion with every note and expression! They recorded a CD together titled "Recuerdos De Mi Mama”. Freddy’s solo performances and original compositions have likened him to "Segovia on acid" and "the Kenny G of flamenco guitar" and "Smashing Pumpkins meets Gypsy Kings". At Yoshi's SF: August 20th 2014! AND awesome The Peace in the Park festival! Saturday, August 23rd, Main Stage! Save the Dates!!!