A poster for the concert.
He is called "Mister DADGAD" for a reason. French acoustic guitar virtuoso Pierre Bensusan, who has spent five decades mastering the iconic tuning, will perform in Shenzhen this Sunday evening.
Recognized as one of the greatest guitarists of the 21st century, Bensusan has used DADGAD exclusively since 1978. His works, including "Wu Wei" and "Azwan," showcase a signature style that blends Celtic, folk, jazz, world music, and classical influences.
His music has been praised by guitar legends from Leo Kottke to Tommy Emmanuel. In 2008, Guitar Player magazine readers voted him Best World Music Guitarist, and he won an Independent Music Award in 2014 for his triple live album "Encore."
Born in Algeria, Bensusan began studying piano at 7 and taught himself guitar at 11. His discovery of DADGAD tuning in 1973 opened a new musical world. "Maybe due to my African roots, this was what triggered my drive. When I started to study DADGAD in a more academic way, I realized that anything could be played in that tuning — chords, scales, modes — with a very different color than standard tuning," he said.
The Shenzhen concert is titled "I Just Love Being Here"—a tribute to the Chinese audience. "I have never felt such focused, sincere, and warm listening anywhere else," Bensusan said of his previous China tour. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of his recording career, making this performance particularly significant.
Time: 3 p.m., Aug. 30
Venue: Multifunction Hall, Bay Opera of Shenzhen, Bao'an District (深圳滨海艺术中心多功能厅)
Metro: Line 5 to Baohua Station (宝华站), Exit D
