American guitarist Taso Comanescu is a colorful performer full of subtle nuance and strong musicianship. His interesting programs present a variety of repertoire highlighted by a deep commitment to engage his audiences in a meaningful way. Comanescu’s debut recording "Epitaphios" (2011) features music from all over the world including a world premier recording by the young American composer Kyle Peter Rotolo (Le Crane A La Cigarette Qui Fume).
Comanescu’s follow up recording entitled "Renaissance | Baroque" (2015) features popular and lesser known transcriptions of works originally for lute, vihuela, theorbo and baroque guitar. The recording was described as "...infused with a sense of artistry that is rarely found nowadays" (Tavi Jinariu, guitar virtuoso). Engineer and producer Brandon Jones remarked that "Taso is an extraordinary artist. I have recorded dozens of guitarists over the years, and Taso's technical mastery and musical sensitivity make him a joy to work with. His charisma and passion for music is obvious in every single note that he plays".
During the 2013-2014 season Comanescu gave his symphonic debut with the West Coast Symphony performing Vivaldi's Lute Concerto in D. Engagements from the 2014-2015 season include a solo recital kicking off the tenth season of the Mount Cross Classical Concert Series and as a special guest on the nationwide tour promoting Drew Croon’s "Missa Andaluza". Comanescu’s all Spanish program was described by critic Debra de Liso "...I felt aware of the stillness of the audience. All eyes and ears were riveted on the young classical guitarist Taso Comanescu. His fervor and devotion were immediately clear for each musical phrase of his stunning performance from Tarrega’s soulful Lagrima to Isaac Albeniz’s Asturian, classical piece Leyenda. He was magical."
In 2010 Comanescu began a collaboration with internationally acclaimed dramatic tenor Charles Castronovo. Their program, entitled Charles Castronovo’s Italian Songbook, consists of popular Neapolitan, Sicilian and Italian folk songs arranged by Comanescu and the ensemble Sweet Nectar. Recent engagements include Irvine's Barclay Theater, Atlanta's Spivey Hall, New York City's 54 Below and a critically acclaimed debut at Los Angeles' Zipper Hall. Performing Arts Live raved of an "…extraordinary performance… A grand program of famous arias and Neapolitan Songs…(Castronovo) was accompanied by an impressive five piece musical ensemble." 2012 marked the release of the group’s debut recording, "Dolce Napoli: The Neopolitan Songs." The great Placido Domingo states "The arrangements and the intimate approach to these songs is new and yet nostalgic at the same time".
Comanescu’s various other musical pursuits include Greek folk music where he frequently collaborates with the renowned Greek composer Dimitris Mann. He also is actively interested in contemporary popular music as well as music history. Taso has been a member of the music faulty at Pepperdine University since 2011. Mr. Comanescu received his degrees from Pepperdine University studying with Christopher Parkening and the University of Southern California under Scott Tennant. Taso plays on a 1973 Jose Ramirez guitar.