by Aura Lawson • UT Staff Writer
October 13, 2005
Many musicians in today's music scene barely have the ability to produce decent tunes, let alone play an instrument to its full potential. But guitarist Michael Tillman possesses that rare ability and more.
Last Thursday, Oct. 6, I had the privilege of hearing Tillman play at Ritazza in the Fretwell building. This wonderful free event was brought to UNC Charlotte students by the Campus Activities Board.
Tillman, a musician from the Dallas Fort Worth area, specializes in classical and Latin music styles. His first album, titled "Michael Tillman: A Renaissance," is a collection of English, Spanish and Italian music from the Elizabethan period. The artist's compositions reflect the poetic romanticism of a bygone era.
Another album "Voisins Vecinos" (neighbors in French and Spanish, respectively),is already in the works. It will consist of French and Spanish guitar solos inan eclectic blend of tango, impressionism, cabaret, rumba, pop and flamenco.
At home in Dallas, Tillman plays four nights a week at various locations.
His solo performance began with "Twilight," a Brazilian style rhythm composedby the artist himself. Other songs he played included covers of the Gipsy Kings' "Solituda" andthe Buena Vista Social Club's "Chan Chan."
The last song was another composition by Tillman, an elegant instrumental flamencorumba "Amor en Fazio."
By the end of the show, Tillman had successfully transported me to a far awayLatin landscape.
Many songs were seamlessly blended into one another without interruption of theharmony.
Although all the lyrics in the songs he performed were in Romance languages,he still managed to skillfully convey intense emotions through his music. Thetone of his performance ranged from upbeat and carefree to wistful and moody.
Other people there also seemed to enjoy the performance, as even the caf? employeesbroke out into spur-of-the-moment dancing. In between sets, Tillman made it apoint to connect even further with the audience by chatting with almost everyone.He was a very friendly, open and approachable guy.
Unfortunately though, there were very few students in attendance, most likelybecause it was a rainy weeknight. But the rain did not stop junior Kristen McMurtrieand sophomore Laura Mullis from attending.
I asked the two students what made them want to go to the show, and they bothtold me they had seen fliers around campus and really liked Latin music.
After the show, I had a chance to ask Tillman a few quick questions.
The University Times: You're a very talented musician. How did you get into playingmusic?
Michael Tillman: I taught myself to play. When I was 12, I picked up a guitarand have been playing for 16 years now. I learned to play by ear, and taughtmyself how to read music.
UT: What was it that drew you to Latin music?
MT: The first time I heard Brazilian and Latin music, it was so different yetvery familiar. It felt like part of me had heard it before.
UT: Who are some of your musical influences?
MT: Buena Vista Social Club, Paco de Lucia and Ketama.
UT: What advice would you give to someone interested in learning how to playmusic?
MT: Figure out why you want to play and what it is about music that attractsyou, and then immerse yourself in that. Always remember that all music is a kindof love.
For more information about Michael Tillman and his music, visit http://www.michaeltillman.com.