DUO CATANZA
What is Catanza? When creating the name for their guitar duo, Scott and Matthias decided to use something that would be reflective of their heritage. Scott’s great grandfather immigrated to the United States from Catanzaro, Italy, which is known as the City of the Two Seas. In thinking of ways to use Catanzaro within the name of the duo, the decision was made to shorten the name to Catanza. In addition to creating a word unique to the duo, the name also highlights the word, tanz, which is German for dance. As Matthias has German heritage, amongst others, this seemed to be a perfect choice. Thus, Duo Catanza was created.
Scott Plato received his Bachelor’s degree in classical guitar performance from Georgia State University under the instruction of John Sutherland, a protegé of Andres Segovia. Scott then completed a Master of Music degree from Adams State University in Alamosa Colorado. In 1995 Scott founded the guitar department at Gainesville College in Gainesville Georgia and was the Head of Guitar Studies there until 2000.
His book on guitar improvisation, Creating Guitar Solos, is sold worldwide. Previous collaborations have included performances with members of the Atlanta Symphony and the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra. Scott currently maintains a busy schedule as a performer and teacher in the Atlanta area and is Head of Guitar Studies at Gordon State College.
In 2017 Scott released a solo CD “Sacred Music on Solo Guitar”. For sound samples visit https://scottplato.hearnow.com.
He also performs in the Atlanta Guitar Trio. You can purchase his musical arrangements at Sheet Music Plus.
Matthias Young is the Director of Worship at Mount Vernon Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, GA. His skills as both a classical and rock guitarist have allowed him to build a strong music program incorporating elements of both traditional and contemporary music in worship. In addition to guitar he is an accomplished tenor, and directs both the chancel choir and praise band.
In 2012, he published his first book, Metal Guitar Method, which has sold thousands, and continues to be one of the top sellers on Amazon. His online guitar lessons have helped countless students as they have garnered over a million views to date. He has also been published in the Guitar Foundation of America’s quarterly journal, Soundboard, and is a contributing author to Guitar World and Guitar Player.
In 2015, he released his first album in the hard rock/metal genre, titled, Uncharted Lands, which is available on Apple Music, Spotify, and many other digital platforms. An avid composer, he is a member of ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, & Publishers).
Also a student of John Sutherland, Matthias studied at Berry College, Georgia State University, and Boston University. He currently teaches guitar at Truett McConnell University in Cleveland, GA
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David Troy Francis, piano
Two time Pulitzer Prize winning composer Ned Rorem says of Mr. Francis: He plays the right note with the right tone at the right time. (what more can you ask of any performer?) And with this, he adds that indefinable element of himself, which is the magic of all true interpreters.
Mr. Francis has enjoyed a 50+ year career of musical excellence and performs in recital throughout America and Europe. He has ten cds available including the world premiere recording of Mr. Rorem's Eight Etudes for Piano on the cd entitled The Americans. The Los Angeles Times raves of Mr. Francis’ playing: consistently absorbing whether in lyrical repose or propulsive fury. Two of his best selling CDs include his unique and compelling arrangements of American Hymns.
Mr. Francis is the recording pianist for such films as Pursuit of Happyness, Elegy and Fame. He has composed music for film and television.
Mr. Francis is the creator, composer, musical director and executive producer of the runaway smash hit musical BARK! - the 3rd longest running production in Los Angeles theatrical history. The wildly successful show has been mounted in theatres from Florida to Alaska and internationally in Brazil and Scotland. BARK! has been selected critics’ choice by the Los Angeles Times and The Chicago Tribune.
David Troy Francis was born in Memphis, Tennessee, and is best known for his steadfast championing and performance of contemporary American music. Now living in Roswell, Georgia, he is an esteemed concert pianist and recording artist as well as a respected composer, arranger and accompanist.