Robert Boyd

Robert Boyd is Santa Barbara’s own premiere Flamenco guitarist/composer. He is one of the rare and few Americans who has dedicated his musical dreams and professional career to the art of Flamenco and is recognized as one of the top composers and performers of Flamenco music in the United States.

"Robert Boyd's passionate dedication to his art is inspirational; he is one of the finest Flamenco guitarists in California." ... James Edwards - director of guitar studies / Cal Poly University

Robert’s unique repertoire, original arrangements, and transcriptions are a blend of many genres including: Traditional and Modern Flamenco, Spanish Classical, South American, Brazilian Classical, and Original Compositions.

“... a commanding performance... dispatching each virtuosic work with panache and an unerring sense of style... an extremely polished and satisfying recital” …Bruce F. Wood - Southern California Classical Guitar Society

His renowned ability for creating an unequaled ambience for private parties and house concerts has made him a sought out performer throughout California and the United States. Among the many celebrities he has entertained are: Peter Gallagher, Dennis Miller, Barbra Streisand, Ted Danson, Diane Lane, Josh Brolin, Alanis Morrisette, Katie Holmes, Matt Leblanc, George Thorogood, Troy Aikman, and Fairuza Balk.

“Robert Boyd is one of those musicians who, while not deliberately setting out to 'wow' the audience, succeeds in doing just that... the whole concert was consumed as a glass of sparkling water on a hot summer's night”… Scott Topper - Fox 11 news

About/Education
Born into a family of artists, which includes famed lead singer Brandon Boyd of the multi-platinum band Incubus, Robert began his musical training at age five and has been studying guitar for 20 years. A rigorous musician and careful researcher, he has studied in Spain with some of the world’s finest virtuosos such as: José Luis Rodriguez (musical director for Cristina Hoyos), Guillermo Rios (guitarist for the infamous Flamenco company of Jose Greco), Gerardo Nuñez, and Jesus Montoya. In the United States, Robert has attended and participated in master classes with Pepe Romero, Manuel Barrueco, Paco Jarana (musical director for Eva La Yerbabuena), Gaspar Rodriguez (musical director for the National Ballet of Spain), and Rafael Montilla (guitarist with the company of Paco Peña). Additionally, he has studied extensively with the acclaimed guitarist and composer Adam Del Monte. He has also studied Music Theory, Analysis, and Composition with Dr. Burns Taft (conductor of the Ventura Master Chorale and artistic director of the Ventura Chamber Music Festival), Brazilian Jazz with Chris Judge, and Classical Guitar with Dmitri Diatchenko, James Edwards, Matt Grief, and Carlos Gonzales.

“an expressive, skillful, impeccable performance, tailored to increase our depth of appreciation and love for the Spanish guitar”… Thea Lignos - Your Wedding Day Magazine

Professional Experience
Currently, Robert is the featured solo guitarist at Bacara Resort & Spa in Goleta and averages over 200 performances a year at such venues as: Four Seasons Biltmore, Santa Barbara Historical Society, the Music Academy of the West, Old Spanish Days Fiesta, and the Classical Guitar Societies throughout California. He has appeared in numerous concert venues throughout the U.S. as a soloist and accompanist. He is the musical director of “Arte y Pasion” Flamenco Music and Dance Company which consists of two guitars, four dancers, singer, flute, fretless bass, Indian tablas, and cajon. In 2003, he was invited as the featured soloist of the 7th annual world concert series in Mendocino, Ca. He was the musical director for the 2004 production of “Flamenco Hoy y Mañana” with Linda Vega’s company “Danzas de España”. His company “Arte y Pasion” has premiered the two productions “Alma Flamenca” and “Berto y Flamenco Vivo” at the Center Stage Theater and the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara. His performances have received rave reviews.

“The evocative sound of Boyd’s guitar transported the audience to the mountains of Southern Spain”.... Felicia Tomasko – The Santa Barbara Independent

His original debut Flamenco CD, “Esmeralda” is now available and on sale at www.cdbaby.com. Robert is currently working on his second recording, which will feature his versatility as a solo guitarist and arranger in the songs and dances of Brazil, Argentina, and Venezuela.

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a commanding performance...dispatching each virtuosic work with panache and an unerring sense of style... an extremely polished and satisfying recital... - Bruce F. Wood