Biography
“Stirring and Evocative” (Michigan Classical Guitar Society), and “Stylistic and Poetic” (Nicholas Goluses) have been used to describe the performances of Brad DeRoche. An in-demand performer, teacher, and lecturer; he has proven himself to be popular in concerts halls, guitar festivals, and classrooms alike. His style and energy are reflected in his musical interpretations and his charismatic stage presence, while his scholarly achievements have made him a recognized figure in lecture halls, masterclasses and the academic world in general. His dedication to the “re-discovery” of lesser-known composers and their works has guided his vision for unique concert and recording programs. He is an active concert artist, appearing as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral soloist in North and South America, and has also appeared on public radio and television programs.
Brad DeRoche holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Classical Guitar Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music. He also earned degrees from Central Michigan University and Eastern Michigan University. He participated in many masterclasses with prominent concert guitarists including David Russell, Raphaëlla Smits, Paul Galbraith, Fabio Zanon and others.
Several composers have written works for him including a solo composition by Prix de Rome prize winner Vincent Frohne. Dr. DeRoche has published articles in the scholarly journal Soundboard; performed, taught or presented seminars at the Eastman Guitar Festival, the Interlochen Guitar Festival, the Las Vegas Guitar Festival, the Alexandria Guitar Festival, the Western Illinois University Guitar Festival and others.
Dr. DeRoche is the director of classical guitar studies at the Interlochen Arts Academy, the summer Arts Camp, and is Artistic Director of the Interlochen Guitar Festival. He is also the chair of the music department at Delta College where he teaches courses in guitar and music history. In addition, he holds positions as instructor of guitar at Central Michigan University and Saginaw Valley State University.