Biography
A lifelong passion
Silvan de Smit is recognized as a sophisticated musician, artist of extraordinary quality. Engaged in mesmerizing audiences with refined guitar recitals.
A while ago, Silvan de Smit was born in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. The rich musical environment of his upbringing played a pivotal role in shaping Silvan’s passion for the guitar.
Silvan began his guitar lessons at the tender age of six, under the tutelage of his father. He quickly showed an aptitude for the instrument, advancing rapidly and performing in local venues by the time he was ten. When Silvan was introduced to the world of classical guitar, at the regional music school, studying with Dingeman Coumou, he quickly became captivated by the works of composers such as Fernando Sor, Francisco Tárrega, and Joaquín Rodrigo.
Eager to hone his skills, Silvan enrolled in the prestigious Conservatorium van Amsterdam at age 18, where he studied with the esteemed guitarists and pedagogues, Johannes Moller, Gabriel Bianco, Lydia Kennedy, Eric Vaarzon Morel and Izhar Elias. Silvan’s dedication and hard work earned him the opportunity to perform in many prestigious concert halls and theaters, as well as attracting many guitar students.
Alongside his studies in Amsterdam, Silvan furthered his education by attending masterclasses with legendary guitarists such as Aniello Desiderio, Irina Kulikova, and David Russell. These experiences allowed him to refine his technique and broaden his musical horizons, incorporating elements of various guitar styles into his own unique sound.
Throughout his career, Silvan has garnered critical acclaim for his emotive and expressive playing style. His repertoire spans from Renaissance and Baroque to Romantic and contemporary works. A strong advocate for new music, Silvan has also commissioned and premiered numerous compositions by modern composers, contributing to the evolution of the classical guitar repertoire.
Silvan will be releasing several classical guitar albums this year, including “Masterpieces” which features works by Isaac Albéniz, Enrique Granados, and Joaquín Rodrigo.
In addition to his successful solo career, Silvan is a dedicated educator, imparting his knowledge and love for the guitar to future generations.
Silvan continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his virtuosic performances, deep musicality, and innovative interpretations of the classical guitar repertoire. His unwavering dedication to his art has established him as a leading figure in the world of classical guitar, inspiring countless aspiring musicians to follow in his footsteps.