Jonathan Prag

Jonathan balances baroque favourites like J S Bach with thrilling and evocative contemporary music like the songs of Mikis Theodorakis.

He includes beguiling tunes by Cole Porter or George Gershwin and sometimes blues arrangements.

A classic from West Side Story might be followed by a haunting Eastern European folk tune or a Russian lament.

Spain and South America feature, bringing the warmth and energy of flamenco and tango to complement the drama of pieces by Villa lobos or Fernando Sor.

He has an affinity with the folk roots of the classical guitar’s origins and in this show, classical masters like Schubert and Scarlatti rub shoulders with Turlough O’Carolan and his jaunty Irish airs.

Jonathan skilfully introduces each piece with well-chosen snippets of information and humour.

This lends an element of storytelling so that the audience always feels part of the performance, as if they are travelling on a musical journey.

“ Beautiful sound, exquisite tone.” Ontario Arts Review

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“ Wonderful… the combination of melody, rhythm and harmony is truly satisfying.” The Scotsman

"I come every year. Outstanding." Serge Richard, Edinburgh Fringe audience member

BIO

In the late 70s/80s, when he worked as an actor/musician with various companies, Jonathan toured in the UK, Canada, Poland, Italy and France.

He worked with recognised performers like Eartha Kitt, Pip Utton and Scotland’s Poet Laureate, Edwin Morgan.

His work evolved into a dedication to classical guitar during the 1990s, and he began performing at festivals, notably the Edinburgh Fringe.

This led to collaborations such as his duo work with fellow classical guitarists Adrian Neville, UK classical guitar maestro, Carlos Bonell, and, recently, the folk singer, Dom Prag.

He joined the Ruskin Ensemble, with whom he toured throughout the UK.

As a soloist he has performed in many venues both here and abroad.

He is a a passionate believer in the power of music to uplift people and bring joy and he is a regular performer for the charity, Music in Hospitals and Care.

Jonathan has taught classical guitar since the mid-90s and many of his pupils achieve their grade 8. Two are in successful rock bands.

In 2024, Jonathan won the Buxton Fringe Solo Instrumentalist Award.

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