Dr. Tariq Harb, DMA

Biography

Dr. Tariq Harb's journey to distinction in the world of classical guitar has been marked by notable achievements and unwavering dedication. With a string of accolades including top prizes in renowned competitions like the Barrios WorldWideWeb Competition, the Montreal International Classical Guitar Competition and the Tokyo International Classical Guitar Competition, Harb quickly emerged as a leading figure in his generation. 

Renowned for his unparalleled command of melody and emotion, Harb's virtuosity has been lauded by luminaries in the field. TED Global praised his "masterful" performances, while Patrick Roux, Artistic Director of Guitare Alla Grande, extolled his "elegant and charismatic stage presence" and "impeccable playing." CBC Radio crowned him as their NEXT! guitarist in 2013, heralding him as "Canada's next classical guitar superstar," further solidifying his international acclaim.  

Harb's concert engagements span the globe, gracing stages from North America to Asia and everywhere in between. His performances in iconic venues such as the ancient Roman Amphitheatre in Jordan, Tokyo's Bunka Kaikan concert hall, Amsterdam's Concertgebouw, and Carnegie Hall in New York have captivated audiences. He has also shared his expertise through masterclasses and appearances at prominent guitar festivals and as an adjudicator at music competitions worldwide.

With seven solo albums to his credit, encompassing a diverse range of repertoire, Harb's contributions extend beyond performance to include instructional videos and publications aimed at enriching the classical guitar community. As a composer and arranger, his works have garnered acclaim. His suite "Spirit," recently published by Les Productions d’Oz, showcases his innovative approach to solo guitar composition. Furthermore, his latest endeavour, the duo project "17 Strings" alongside oud virtuoso Abdul-Wahab Kayyali, promises to push boundaries and enchant audiences anew.

A Jordanian-Canadian with Palestinian heritage, Harb's journey from a career in finance to the world stage of classical guitar is a testament to his unwavering passion and determination. With a master’s degree from McGill University, a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Toronto and a faculty position at Concordia University, Harb continues to inspire aspiring musicians while enjoying support from industry-leading sponsors. In a world where talent and perseverance converge, Tariq Harb stands as a beacon of excellence, inviting listeners to embark on a journey of musical discovery and artistic expression.

March, 2024

The Unlimited Guitar: Arranging Bach and Britten as Means to Repertoire Expansion

https://tspace.library.utoronto.ca/handle/1807/68434

Spirit - Suite for Solo Guitar

https://productionsdoz.com/product/8769-spirit

Bach: Toccata and Fugue, BWV 565

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jtuTCy8RXg

Debussy: Suite bergamasque, L.75: III. Clair de lune

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zEoyRJMKpgY

Piazzolla: Invierno Porteño

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUeDuLbS0wU