An Evening with Tommy Emmanuel C.G.P

An Evening with Tommy Emmanuel C.G.P

Tommy Emmanuel, C.G.P. (Certified Guitar Player), is an acclaimed Australian guitarist renowned for his virtuosic fingerstyle technique and dynamic stage presence. Born in 1955 in Muswellbrook, New South Wales, Emmanuel began playing guitar at age four, inspired by his musically inclined family and the sounds of Chet Atkins, who would later become his mentor and collaborator. By age six, he was already performing professionally, touring Australia with his siblings in a family band. Over the decades, Emmanuel evolved from a sought-after session musician and band member to a celebrated solo artist, earning numerous awards and accolades, including being named a Member of the Order of Australia and induction into the Australian Roll of Renown.

Emmanuel’s artistry is defined by his ability to translate complex arrangements onto a single acoustic guitar, captivating audiences worldwide with his melodic sensibility and technical mastery. His musical journey took a pivotal turn when he embraced the acoustic guitar, inspired by Chet Atkins’ philosophy of “one man, one guitar.” This led to a lifelong friendship with Atkins, who honored Emmanuel with the rare title of Certified Guitar Player—an accolade held by only a handful of musicians globally.

Watch him perform a live concert at Maui's best performing arts venue, the Maui Arts & Cultural Center.

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