Paolo Besson (Gold Coast)

French concert guitarist Paolo Besson discovered the guitar at a young age, training first with Bruno Michel Abati and Jesús Castro Balbi in Lyon before continuing his studies with Jérémy Jouve at the Conservatoire à Rayonnement Régional de Paris. At just 17 years old, he was admitted to the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris, where he studied with Gabriel Bianco and now studies with Tristan Manoukian. He has refined his artistry through masterclasses with major figures of international classical guitar, including Marcin Dylla, Anabel Montesinos, Judicaël Perroy, Thibaut Garcia, and Gérard Abiton. Since winning his first competitions at age 18, he has claimed numerous first prizes and audience awards, building a reputation for both technical rigor and powerful stage presence. He performs regularly across France and Europe, with recent concerts in Spain and Italy, including a recital in Parma performed entirely in darkness for a blind audience. Paolo Besson is also part of the artistic team behind the acclaimed family show "Yoyo à l'Hôtel de la guitare bleue," set to the music of Roland Dyens. In 2025, he released his debut album, exploring the orchestral and coloristic dimensions of the classical guitar. What You'll Hear A program featuring some of the composers you'll hear: Isaac Albéniz — Asturias Johann Sebastian Bach — Sarabande, Gigue, and Double (BWV 997) Giulio Regondi — Introduction and Caprice Ennio Morricone — Cinema Paradiso Joaquín Rodrigo — Invocation and Dance Maurice Ravel — Pavane for a Dead Princess Astor Piazzolla — La muerte del Ángel Additional Info • Seating: General admission, first-come first-served. • Age Requirement: Ages 8+. Under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. • Refund Policy: Tickets are non-refundable but transferable — you're welcome to gift or sell them. • Bookings: Tickets must be purchased online. No sales at the door. • Accessibility: All venues are wheelchair accessible. • Doors Open: 45 minutes before concert start time. • Concert Length: 75 minutes (no interval).