Prolific Neo-Classical Guitarist: GEORGE BELLAS!
Tue, 22/01/2008 - by Rory Sullivan
Today's Elevenses Throws Eleven Quick Questions At 'Prolific Neo-Classical Guitarist' George Bellas!
George Bellas is one of the most prolific and innovative composers and guitarists of our time. He has performed and recorded with Moggway, Uli Jon Roth, Paul Gilbert, Dean Castronova, Jeff Scott Soto and Eric Martin to name but few. In February 2008 George's new instrumental album titled "Planetary Alignment" will be released worldwide by the Lion Music record label.
So what’s your drink of choice at 11am in the morning?
Starbucks Coffee!
Which song/album really made you want to play guitar?
Nobody in particular influenced me to start playing guitar. I wanted to play guitar and write music from a natural desire that I had which stemmed for the love of the instrument and music in general.
Who’s the world’s greatest guitarist?
The one that plays with the most feel, is highly innovative, extremely musical and continues to practice until death.
Who’s the world’s most underrated guitarist?
All of the ones that are intellectually gifted, struggling to be heard and may be playing the style of music that doesn't fit into the mainstream.
So what are you up to at the moment?
I am currently writing super-futuristic music for a new album. I constantly compose with every chance I get. I have never once run out of ideas and always feel the need to be writing. It soothes my soul and is very intellectually stimulating to me.
What was the last gig you went to (as a member of the audience)?
Who would be in your dream line-up?
A student recital at the Musicians Institute.
I would like to improvise live with Mike Mangini, Jorden Rudess and Jonas Hellborg.
How many guitars do your own and which one is ‘your precious’?
I have a wide assortment of Fender 1957 Stratocasters, Gibson Flying-Vs and Les Pauls. My Strats and V's are my precious ones, but my 1957 Daphne Blue Strat is the one I play the most. It fits like a warm glove and sounds like liquid.
What’s the last great album that you bought (or were given)?
Carl Orf's "Carmina Burana". So simple but so very powerful and emotionally moving.
Do you suffer from stage fright?
No. I love and thrive on playing in front of people. I am confident with my skills and am not concerned with what others may think.
So what’s your drink of choice at 11pm in the evening?
V8 Fruit and Vegetable juice.
George's new instrumental album titled "Planetary Alignment" will be released worldwide by the Lion Music record label on 15th February 2008.
(Interview - 14th December 2007)
Our Friends
