JP

Born in France, I am a self-taught guitarist and I’ve been playing for over 30 years. I wanted to express myself freely through my music. To achieve this, I have explored many techniques and music styles from Rock, Blues and Pop to Latin, Flamenco, African music and more.

I often use improvisation to capture the moment. A slow start to the tune and a dark venue with good acoustics are the ingredients needed for my inspiration to flourish. All the skills, techniques and knowledge I accumulated through practising with my guitar come together in this magical moment when I become one with the sound and where consciousness of time and space disappear.

 

 

Sheetal

I grew in Manchester and have wanted to play the guitar since I was young to accompany a fondness of singing. Music has always evoked profound emotions in me that I cannot explain whether it be Bollywood (influenced by my Indian parents), rock music or native folk music from various parts of the world I have experienced through my love of travel.

I contacted JP about guitar lessons. JP made a proposition to me that if I develop well as a guitarist, I can perform a show with him. I am proud of what I have achieved in less than a year, and the way music has taken a deeper role in my life. This is largely in part due to JP and his belief in me.

 

 

 

JP & Sheetal as a Duo

They have started to work together in July 2015 following Leonardo's departure. They are due to start touring in London in April 2016!

The duo plays its own unique style: a fusion of Arabic, Spanish and Gypsy music. Evocative and intimate but also fiery and passionate, their music is ideally suited for an unforgettable ‘Music in the dark’ experience.

 

 

 

 

Leonardo

Born in Sonoran desert, in northern Mexico. My early episodes as a musician occurred while studying at the school of arts  “J.E. Pierson” of the Mexican National Institute of Arts (2000-2003). Simultaneously, I started playing as a soloist for the classical guitar ensemble of the University of Sonora “Staccato”, under direction of Prof. Jesus Cota.

Driven by the profound enjoyment I find on exploring the reach and limits of the acoustic guitar, I joined JP in his project “Music in the Dark”. At the present time, I am also a research PhD. student in Physics at King’s College London.

 

 

 

 

 

JP & Leonardo as a Duo

They have started to work together in September 2014 following Xochitl's depart to the States. Their first performance together in February 2015, was a very well received showcase in a intimate venue. They are due to start touring in April 2015 with new songs and Leonardo bringing a Latin flavour to the mix!

The duo plays its own unique style: a fusion of Arabic, Spanish and Gypsy music. Evocative and intimate but also fiery and passionate, their music is ideally suited for an unforgettable ‘Music in the dark’ experience.

 

 

 

 

 

Xochitl

Born in Nicaragua, brought up in Italy, I have always been fond of music; however the opportunity to learn a proper instrument that wasn't a recorder only arose when I came to London. This is where I met JP, who taught me all I know about guitar.

I was very surprised when he later asked me to join him in a duo for his project “Music in the dark”, but I was ready and excited about taking on this new challenge.

 

 

 

 

JP & Xochitl as a Duo

Following the enthusiastic response from the audience at the first Music in the dark show, and the demand for more, JP & Xochitl formed in May 2013. The Duo’s performance received much acclaim during their premiere as they took their audience by surprise with their captivating tunes and the diversity of their musical palette.

The duo has developed its own unique style: a fusion of Arabic, Spanish and Gypsy music. Evocative and intimate but also fiery and passionate, their music is ideally suited for an unforgettable ‘Music in the dark’ experience.