Moller-Fraticelli guitar duo play with international flair

Moller and Fraticelli’s passion is clearly displayed as they play the finale to their guitar duo on the McKinney Theatre stage. (Maria Marquez / Lariat)

The Swedish playing style of self-taught guitarist Johannes Moller and Argentinian guitarist Laura Fraticelli resulted in a pure passionate collaboration on Tuesday, Sept. 26 when the duo performed at Saddleback College’s McKinney Theatre. 

The European guitar duo began with a two-piece tango composition originated from Argentina one in the style of classical guitar in which Laura Fraticelli learned to play.

“Both compositions were written in the early 1900s  and the most important instrument in tango is the guitar,” Moller said. “But we will be exploring guitar music from all parts of the world, and we hope you enjoy them.”

Moller then continued the night with a five-piece solo composition that he composed himself while on tour in China, inspired by traditional Chinese impressions. “Five Chinese Impressions” follows the traditional Chinese music format including plucked strings, gongs, and various cymbals that Moller is able to imitate with genuine authenticity, all on his classical guitar.

“These pieces all came to be from the inspiration of the Chinese impressions and classical Chinese music, but I had to modify them to fit the classical guitar and give it my touch,” Moller said.

Johannes Moller had a solo moment to perform his three-piece Chinese composition he composed while on tour in China. (Maria Marquez/ Lariat)

Each piece tells the story of Moller’s journey in China, the people he met, the rainy days he spent going from one venue to another, and the tales he learned.

Fraticelli returns to join Moller back on stage to end the night with an Indian composition based on the legend of a flute player who charms women by the sound of his flute and the music has the illusion that he can divide himself up and dance with them all.

This rendition of a classic tale with the spin of a classical guitar left an impression as the audience sent the duo off with a standing ovation. A crowd-pleasing display of passion and emotion was evident and present on that stage.

“It was a great pleasure to play for everyone tonight, thank you.” Moller and Fraticelli said.

The Duo’s next show is on October 1 at the Los Angeles County Museum of Arts but a whole listing of their upcoming shows is available on their website.

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