Paul Sessoms - Classical Guitar

In addition to playing traditional classical repertoire like Bach, Legnani, and Regondi, I improvise impromptu pieces in styles stemming from both the classical and jazz traditions. Aside from improvisations, my current program consists of Romantic, Baroque, Classical, Contemporary music on the classical guitar. For performances, I typically play solo classical guitar. An amplifier, microphone, chair and music stand is all that is needed.

Paul Sessoms has performed and studied throughout the United States and Western Europe. A native of Williamston, North Carolina, Paul graduated with his High School Diploma from University of North Carolina School of the Arts, BM from Conservatorium van Amsterdam, and MM from Conservatorium Maastricht, where he graduated Cum Laude. Paul has most recently graduated with his Doctorate in Music studying with Professor Stephen Mattingly at Florida State University. Paul's treatise was on incorporating improvised embellishments from 17th-century Italy on the theorbo. Throughout his studies, Paul has given numerous lectures on Baroque improvisation, guitar transcriptions, and number symbolism in the music of Johann Sebastian Bach. He has also performed solo and ensemble works through the Ijmond Gitaar Festival, the Polymorphia ensemble and Early Music Ensemble playing the Renaissance Lute. Paul received 2nd prize at Troy University Guitar Competition in 2026 and audience choice prize in 2014 at the Piedmont Guitar Festival. Paul continues to immerse himself in early music, academic writing and improvising after graduating with his doctorate degree. Currently he is preparing for a guitar quartet performance and workshop in Salaya, Thailand.

I will only require a chair, microphone, and amplifier if this is a moderate to big venue. The guitar will be loud enough for smaller settings, like house concerts.