Rare opportunity to witness a truly great master in Cork

American guitarist Ralph Towner headlines the upcoming weekend at Triskel of artists from the acclaimed ECM label, writes Philip Watson

RALPH TOWNER is a master American guitarist and musical polyglot whose highly original playing and compositions effortlessly embrace jazz, classical, Brazilian, folk and world music.

Over a remarkable career lasting half a century or more, 76-year-old Towner has combined classical training and a virtuoso technique with a love of strong melodies, dynamic rhythms, stirring improvisation — and a beautifully lyrical and luminous tone on his acoustic six- and 12-string guitars. He is jazz and contemporary music’s Julian Bream; a player of prodigious talent, range and vision.