The Dearing Concert Duo

The Dearing Concert Duo is a Michigan based classical guitar and voice duo. They are heard throughout the United States and Canada in a range of venues. The Dearings made their European debut during the summer of 2002 with eight concerts including the Cheltenham International Music Festival.

What makes them unique is the broad range of versatility they offer; not just in repertoire but also in programming. They come together with unique and exceptional training and this merging of talents is, in the words of more than one music critic “magical.”

Abha is an award winning spinto soprano who has been performing her entire life. She has sung at venues on three continents. She is also a gifted flutist.

Steven’s strong technique allows him to be equally adept as both a solo guitarist and an accompanist. He has studied with exceptional artists and has a wide repertoire.

Named Detroit Music Awards’ “Outstanding Classical Ensemble” in 2003 and 2002, the Dearing Concert Duo performs at concert halls, universities/colleges, historic churches, art museums, living rooms, as well as many other sites.

“Your artistic performance at this (Organization of American States) served to showcase Canadian talent and culture to over 1000 guests in attendance…Delegates and I were most impressed with your performance. My congratulations to you.”

Lloyd Axworthy, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Canada

“You will come away very impressed by the Duo.”

John Guinn, Oakland Press

“What makes the music sing is the Dearing’s lovely tonal blend, secure phrasing and the way Steven’s clean articulation and steady rhythm lays the foundation for Abha’s warm approach to melody. The sound world is elegantly formal…while the duet sports a seductively intimate blend...”

Mark Stryker, Detroit Free Press

“Steven’s vigorous readings by the Brazilian composer Jorge Morel are among the instrumental delights. Abha sings in a beautiful soprano…richly textured…passionate…Marvelous program of duets…there is definitely artistic dialogue going on here.”

Ted Shaw, Windsor Star

“The DCD transports listeners to a different time and space…and transform the very air around them with a gentle magic that allows the music to come alive. The beautiful textures and tones convince the listener that there’s much more going on than one guitar and one flute. The sounds and colors fill the spaces, pulling the listener into a peaceful daydream.”

Ralph Valdez, NPR station WDET

“…technically assured and rhythmically sprightly…Polished, dynamic performances.”

George Bulanda, Hour Magizine

what critics are saying about Steven’s solo debut JULY RECITAL

“…it’s a notable one…turning out strong performances, both technically and emotionally…he sails through the shifting meters and rhythms of the first movement with élan…he plays with feeling – and fire”    George Bulanda, HOUR Detroit, 3/11

“…a rewarding set of engaging 20th- Century and contemporary works played with charismatic musicianship and clean technique…the opening India swirls through a string of snappy meter changes – and a richly lyrical melodic-harmonic language that leaves the scent of jazz improvisation in the air.”    Mark Stryker, Detroit Free Press, 2/11

“…he plays each intricate and emotional piece as a seasoned performer…”

Stacy Jenkins, Observer & Eccentric, 1/11

“It’s finger-picking good.”   David Wallace, C & G Newspapers, 12/10