Stephen Aron

Described by the New York Times as "cultivated and musical" Stephen Aron has established himself at the center of the American classical guitar scene. His first solo CD, Sketches, features the first recordings of works by Ned Rorem and David Bernstein. Of this recording, the Cleveland Plain Dealer said it features "interpretations that sing with vibrant rhythm, subtle color and a feeling of intimacy" Mr. Aron's CD, 3-disc set, features the complete 51 Chopin Mazurkas on solo guitar (Mel Bay). This recording, in presenting an entire series of works by a major non-guitar composer, represents an audacious industry first. "He has produced what must certainly be regarded as the most important contribution to the repertoire (by arrangement) in recent years...breathtaking" (Guitar Review). The set was recently re-issued in a one-disc version "My Favorite Mazurkas" by Clear Note Publications. His latest recording, of the Lieder ohne Vorte of Mendelssohn and the complete Kinderszenen, Op. 15 of Schumann, Romantic Guitar, was released this year by Clear Note. A book of thirty of the Mendelssohn works accompanied the CD release.

An avid arranger, his work is published by Tuscany Editions ("wonderful guitaristic arrangement," American Music Teacher), Mel Bay Publications ("historic," Guitart), and Clear Note Publications. His edition and recording of the Complete Guitar Works of Burle Marx was released in 2007 by Clear Note ("Fascinating...This is a book to be ignored at your peril. If this music...is not played by lots of performers in the next few years, then there is simply no justice in the world of music," Classical Guitar). Stephen Aron's recordings have been described as "stunning" (Guitar Review), "inspired" (Classical Guitar) and "exemplary" (Soundboard). A vigorous chamber music advocate, he performs regularly with JoNell Aron, a soprano with whom he has recorded two CD's, one of original arrangements of vaudeville songs called Shine On Harvest Moon, and one of original arrangements of sacred songs entitled In My Heart. Of Shine On Harvest Moon, Fanfare magazine said it was "warmly recommended," while The Rag Times declared it was "exceptional and appealing; get this CD." Of In My Heart, Soundboard stated "there are many reasons to like this superbly produced CD...it is one of the best discs to cross my desk." He is a regular guest with the Gabrieli Ensemble (strings) and his quartet Poco Tango, (flute, guitar, bass and percussion) performes regularly in the region. Mr. Aron has also published a collection of arias arranged for voice and guitar from Handel's Messiah, and an original composition for solo guitar, Rockport Stomp (both with Clear Note). Classical Guitar described Rockport Stomp as "imaginative, adventurous, effortlessly entertaining and a great deal of fun to play."