AlmaNova

AlmaNova THIS FRIDAY AT USC!!!!

2012-02-01T22:16:00.000-08:00

USC Thornton School of Music and the Classical Guitar Department presents...

AlmaNova

Friday, February 3, 2012,
8:00 p.m.
University of Southern California
Jeanette MacDonald Hall

Concert this Saturday, Jan. 28th in LA!

2012-01-25T11:00:00.000-08:00

A Journey for Flute and Guitar - ALMANOVA DUO
Saturday, January 28 at 7:30 p.m.
11760 Gateway Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Tickets: $10 in advance, $15 at the door
Buy Advance Tickets Online!
www.gatewayperformanceseries.org

"Jovano, Jovanke" live performance

2012-01-19T23:17:00.000-08:00

AlmaNova performs this Sunday in Encinitas, CA!!!

2012-01-13T19:49:00.000-08:00

The next concert presented by the Commission for the Arts is this Sunday, Jan. 15, at 2:00pm and features the outstanding flute and guitar duo, ALMANOVA; in a program of music by Ravel, Ibert and Imamovic.

Encinitas Library, 540 Cornish Drive , Encinitas , CA 92024 . Parking is available at the library, on the street, or at City Hall, west of the library. The concert is free of charge.

Hill Guitar Co. Presents AlmaNova concert at the Darling House, Santa Cruz, CA

2012-01-05T22:50:00.000-08:00

Thank you 2011....Welcome 2012!!!!

2012-01-03T19:16:00.000-08:00

Musically speaking, 2011 was a very exciting year for the two of us! It was certainly the year of travel...we performed all over the US with concerts in Chicago, Monterey, Santa Cruz, St. Louis, San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Charlotte, and Phoenix. In addition, we performed in Europe 3 times! A special thanks to everyone who came to our concerts....with out your support we could not be doing what we love. This year, we were pleased to have collaborated on a CD with Zana Messia and the Balkan Soul Orchestra, to be released in the Spring. The newly formed dynamic duo, ALMER&NIRVAN, released their album last fall. In addition, Almer released his solo guitar CD: The Sarajevo Sessions as well as our very successful Christmas Album! 2011 gave us quite a few surprises as well. In the music business you never know where your career will go next. We have been always open to any possibilities for musical growth and development. Almer's work on the film In the Land of Blood and Honey was completely unexpected and ended up being quite an exciting high point of 2011. This project has inspired Almer to continue exploring his "other side" and will be releasing a new rock CD in the next few months. We also have plans to release our highly anticipated album "Journey" as well as record a new CD of the music of J.S. Bach.

Thank you for being with us in 2011 and we hope to see you all in 2012!!!!

CHEERS!!!!

In the Land of Blood and Honey LA Premiere

2011-12-12T12:43:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a night!

We were completely honored to be guests at the LA Premiere of Angelina Jolie's film, "In the Land of Blood and Honey". It's been four days, and the movie is still with us. It is a beautiful film that accurately depicts the people, the culture, the heartbreak and the struggles during the war in Bosnia. Angelina treated the material with such great respect and authenticity.....it was truly a remarkable achievement for all involved. All of the actors were from the region and most of them lived through the war. The emotion on screen was palpable, genuine and real.

Of course it was also fun to hear Almer's song, "Stani Draga" on the big screen! Please watch to movie and let us know what you think!

It will be released December 23, 2011!

Almer Imamovic interview with Bedrudin GUŠIĆ, SabaH Bosnian-American newspaper

2011-12-06T10:06:00.000-08:00

Maestro gitare ALMER IMAMOVIĆ, jedan od članova dua AlmaNova:UVIJEK MI JE NAJDRAŽE KAD SVIRAMO KOD KUĆE – U BiH

U Parizu sam upoznao Jessicu Pierce sa kojom sviram u duetu flauta i gitara, poznatijeg kao AlmaNova. U SAD sam došao 2003. na magistarski studij na USC kod prof. Scott Tennant and Pepe Romero….Što se tiče gitare, moj uzor je uvijek Paco de Lucia. Jedan svjetski genije gitare! Isto tako mnogo uticaja na mene u mladosti je imao moj otac Alija koji uvijek ima vremena da zapjeva jednu ili dvije sevdalinke….Uglavnom slušamo puno bosansku muziku, posebno sevdalinke. Pored toga tu je i irska, perzijska i indijska muzika koju volimo slušati….Ja sam napisao pjesmu za novi film Angeline Jolie “In the Land of Blood and Honey” koja je u rock stilu pa spremam da snimam čitav rock CD uskoro….Radite ono što vas čini sretnim i ne brinite za uspjeh. Ako naporno vježbate, učite, radite, uspjeh će doći!

Imao sam veliko zadovoljstvo neposredno upoznati ovog našeg mladog umjetnika i njegovu profesionalnu i životnu saputnicu za vrijeme boravka u Charlotte-u (NC), u povodu ovogodišnjeg Dana zahvalnosti. Moje zadovoljstvo je bilo utoliko veće što sam se uvjerio da je Almer jedan od onih – pravih ambasadora naše zemlje u Americi i svijetu, odnosno predstavljanja njene prebogate kulturne baštine.

Hoćeš li, u najkraćem, opisati svoj životni i profesionalni put od rodne Foče do Pasadene?

IMAMOVIĆ: Ja sam kao dječak izrazio želju i ljubav prema muzici. Počeo sam svirati gitaru u muzičkoj skoli u Foči u klasi nastavnika Frasta Danijela. Tu sam dobio odličnu edukaciju za klasičnu muziku, a moja druga strana je vezana za KUD “Braća Ribar” iz Foče gdje sa svirao bas gitaru u folk bandu i naučio mnogobrojne pjesme i plesove iz cijele ex-Jugoslavije i dalje. Pored toga sam u 9. godini sa prijateljima napravio band “POLO” i kasnije “Nostradamus” gdje sam svirao električnu gitaru i rock muziku. To iskustvo sa različitim stilovima muzike je odigralo veliku ulogu kasnije u mojim kompozicijama i stilu sviranja klasične i električne gitare.

Poslije završetka Osnovne muzičke škole upisujem se u Srednju muzičku školu u Sarajevu u klasi profesorice Mile Rakanović. Tu postajem član ansambla “Gitara” gdje se upoznajem sa skupnim muziciranjem. Uz pomoć profesorice Mile počinjem i svoju studijsku karijeru koja je jako važna za muzičara. Sjećam se da smo imali odlična snimanja u velikom dramskom studiju televizije BiH i jako uspješne koncerte u Parizu.

U toku moje 3. godine studija počinje rat i ja sticajem okolnosti prekidam sa sviranjem klasične gitare. Provodim cijeli rat u Goraždu gdje počinjem da komponujem za solo gitaru, ansamble i dramsku muziku.

Poslije Goražda odlazim u Pariz i Cardiff na studije. U Parizu sam upoznao Jessicu Pierce sa kojom sviram u duetu flauta i gitara, poznatijeg kao AlmaNova. U SAD sam došao 2003. na magistarski studij na USC kod prof. Scott Tennant and Pepe Romero.

Da li si, barem u početku, imao nekog muzičkog uzora ? Imaš li ga, možda, i danas?

IMAMOVIĆ: Što se tiče gitare, moj uzor je uvijek Paco de Lucia. Jedan svjetski genije gitare! Isto tako mnogo uticaja na mene u mladosti je imao moj otac Alija koji uvijek ima vremena da zapjeva jednu ili dvije sevdalinke. U posljednje vrijeme slušam Steve Ray Vaughan koji je bio izvanredan blues and rock gitarista. Tu su i moji profesori kod kojih sam studirao: Mila Rakanović, Rafael Andia, John Mills, Scott Tennant i Pepe Romero.

Zašto naziv AlmaNova i od kada djelujete kao duet ?

IMAMOVIĆ: Nama se uvijek dopadala imena Alma i Nova sto na latinskim jezicima znači “Nova Duša” i mi smo to stavili zajedno kao jedna riječ “AlmaNova”. Zajedno izgleda veoma lijepo a ima i lijepo značenje. Jessica i ja uvijek radimo na novim kompozicijama i aranžmanima tako da stvaramo “Novu Dušu” repertoara za flautu i gitaru.

Koliko ste CD-ova do sada izdali i kako ide njihov plasman na tržištu?

IMAMOVIĆ: Do sada smo izdali 4 CD za flautu i gitaru. Imamo još dva snimljena i čekamo na mastering.
Zadnji CD je izasao prije dvije sedmice i tu smo uradili nove aranžmane božićne i praznične muzike.
Pored duo CD, ja imam novi CD za klasičnu gitaru solo sa djelima španskih kompozitora Turina, Torroba, Lauro i snimak poznate Chaconne u D molu od J.S. Bach-a.
Isto tako sad na ljeto sam izdao CD sa svojim prijateljem Nirvanom gdje smo snimili nove obrade sevdalinki i par originalnih pjesama.Vaši čitaoci mogu otici na naš site www.almanovaduo.com da čuju našu muziku.
Naši CD-ovi su jako uspješni i nas prvi album “Debut” je proglašen album godine 2009 i nas drugi cd “Clasic Giuliani” je dobitnik nagrade kritike 2008. od American Record Guide.

Imali ste koncerte u mnogim gradovima USA, zatim u nekim evropskim (Pariz, London, Stockholm…), te u našoj Domovini. Da li Ti je neki od njih (koncerata) ostao u posebnom sjećanju i zašto?

IMAMOVIĆ: Uvijek mi je najdraže kad sviramo kod kuće – u BiH. Nas koncert sa Sarajevskom filharmonijom od prije par godina u pozorištu mi je bio jako drag. Ja sam odsvirao Conierto de Aranjuez od Rodriga, na bis sam pozvao Jessicu da odsviramo našu “Jamilla’s Dance”. Kad smo završili kompoziciju čitava sala je stala na noge i dala nam 5 minuta stojeće ovacije. Mi smo bili presretni da im se svidjela naša kompozicija i da su nas nagradili sa velikim aplauzom.
Nedavno smo imali odlične koncerte u Monterey, CA i Las Vegas, NV.

Dobitnici ste i nekih nagrada za interpretiranje ove vrste umjetnosti kojom se bavite. Šta za jednog umjetnika, zapravo, znače te nagrade?

IMAMOVIĆ: Naravno, uvijek se obradujemo nagradi i osjećamo se zahvalnim da kritika i najvažnije, naši fanovi, vole i cijene našu muziku. To je samo podrška da još više i upornije radimo.

Iz kojeg podneblja Ti i Jessica najviše crpite inspiracije za svoj muzički izražaj?

IMAMOVIĆ: Uglavnom slušamo puno bosansku muziku, posebno sevdalinke. Pored toga tu je i irska, perzijska i indijska muzika koju volimo slušati. Jessica je uradila doktorat na USC i jedan od predmeta je bila etno/tradicionalna muzika tako da smo upoznati sa muzikom iz cijelog svijeta.
Ja sad upravo učim da sviram perzijski oud i jako je zabavno. Prošle godine sam za jedan film svirao kubanski tres – charango, mandoline i flamenco gitaru. Ja radim puno kao studijski muzičar u Hollywood-u i uvijek sam spreman da slušam i sviram različite stilove muzike.

S kim surađujete na muzičkom planu u posljednje vrijeme?

IMAMOVIĆ: Ovog ljeta smo završili CD sa Nirvanom i upravo sada završavamo CD sa pjevačicom Zana Messia.

Koji (važniji) projekti su u planu u idućoj godini?

IMAMOVIĆ: Ja sam napisao pjesmu za novi film Angeline Jolie “In the Land of Blood and Honey” koja je u rock stilu pa spremam da snimam čitav rock CD uskoro. Ja volim svirati sa bandom te svirati električnu gitaru. Već sam napisao pjesme i obećavam odličan rock CD!

S kojim vokalnim solistom iz BiH bi eventualno poželio održati koncerte recimo ovdje, u Americi u neko skorije vrijeme?

IMAMOVIĆ: Prije svega sa Dinom Merlinom i Halidom Bešlićem.Isto tako volio bih zasvirati sa našim gitaristom Edinom Karamazovim koji radi i svira izvanrednu muziku.

Imaš li dugoročnih planova u profesionalnoj karijeri i koji su?

IMAMOVIĆ: Najvažnije je da uživamo u tome što radimo! Imamo par projekata već za 2013. pa smo stalno bussy!

Kako Ti se dojmio netom održani koncert u Internetional House u Charlotte-u?

IMAMOVIĆ: Odlično je bilo! Hvala Mirsadu (Hadžikadić, op. B.G.) na predivnoj organizaciji – sala je bila prepuna! Hvala svima na dolasku!

Imaš li, eventualno, neku poruku za naše čitaoce, posebno one mlađe koji žele da se bave muzikom?

IMAMOVIĆ:Radite ono što vas čini sretnim i ne brinite za uspjeh. Ako naporno vježbate, učite, radite, uspjeh će doći!

Želim Tebi i Jessici još puno uspjeha u životu i radu i hvala za ovaj razgovor.

IMAMOVIĆ: Hvala puno i veliki pozdrav čitaocima!

RAZGOVOR VODIO: Bedrudin GUŠIĆ (302)

Here is the link for original interview posting.

A word about AlmaNova from Las Vegas

2011-11-30T10:55:00.000-08:00

The review below was published in "City Life", a Las Vegas publication for the arts....our concert was one of their "picks" :)

ps....we also want to thank one of our fans, Mitzi. She heard us perform in Ventura County and recommended us to the World Vibrations Concert series in Las Vegas. Because of her kind words and raving reviews, they invited us to perform for the series. We love our fans and can't thank them enough for supporting us and our music THANK YOU, MITZI!!!!!!

AlmaNova
[GET YOUR FACE MELTED, ACOUSTICALLY] FRIDAY, NOV. 18

"AlmaNova is the kind of music your Northern Californian brother-in-law with the graying ponytail listens to while he's stomping grapes to make his own wine. Bosnian guitarist/composer Almer Imamovic and American flautist Jessica Pierce play finger board/key-burning riffs that would send lesser musicians into early and painful bouts of tendonitis (perfect tempo for jumping on fruit), but with the romantic sophistication of being unpercussive and solely based on wind and string instruments (because making wine is classy). It's the kind of music you'd probably hear between breaks during State of Nevada on KNPR. And you should hear it this weekend at the Winchester Cultural center, because AlmaNova might make some of the most interesting, complicated and flat-out beautiful music we've ever heard come out of a guitar/flute duo. You don't even need a graying ponytail to get in."

--Max Plenke.

Thanks, Max!

AlmaNova: The Christmas Album now on ITUNES/AMAZON/CDBABY!!!!!!

2011-11-14T15:04:00.000-08:00

Make your holiday a little sweeter this year...let AlmaNova serenade you with our newest release:

The Christmas Album

It is now available for download only from ITUNES and CDBABY. Download your copy of this album today!...Tell your friends :)

ITUNES DOWNLOAD CLICK HERE
AMAZON DOWNLOAD CLICK HERE
CDBABY DOWNLOAD CLICK HERE

Tracks:
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
Silent Night
Joy to the World
What Child is This?
Oh Holy Night
We Three Kings
Coventry Carol
It Came Upon a Midnight Clear
Gabriel's Message
Ukrainian Carol

NEW CD RELEASE: The Sarajevo Sessions!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-11-03T12:51:00.000-07:00

Dear friends....

The moment has arrived: Almer has released his first solo classical guitar album!!!!

Classical Guitar: The Sarajevo Sessions

It is now available in digital download form from CD Baby.

Download your copy today!!!!

CLICK HERE for iTunes

CLICK HERE for MP3

AlmaNova in concert: Charlotte, NC-November 22 @ 7pm

2011-11-02T10:27:00.000-07:00

Almer and Kenny Hill Guitars!

2011-10-29T16:06:00.000-07:00

AlmaNova Performs Mozart's Flute Concerto in Gmj. and Rodrigo's Concierto de Aranjuez with Sarajevo Philharmonic!!!!

2011-10-06T18:04:00.000-07:00

AlmaNova Store: BUY CDs and MP3

2011-10-01T10:30:00.000-07:00

Concert this Saturday in San Pedro!

2011-09-27T17:53:00.000-07:00

AlmaNova and Michael White Quartet: "Tour the Arts"

Saturday, October 1st, 2011
6:30pm

Croatian Cultural Center

510 W. 7th St.
San Pedro, 90731

Paris!

2011-09-20T19:59:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends,

We are back from some great concerts in Europe. Our first stop was Paris....the city where we met 12 years ago! We had a great trip down memory lane...enjoyed the cafes, the metro and of course La Tour Eiffel! We also stopped by the great La Guitarreria to meet with Fred and the gang. Almer tried some fabulous guitars by European makers. Our next stop was the famed Ecole Normale de Musique de Paris...where we both studied. We heard a great concert chez Maestro Rafael Andia, Almer's guitar professor from his days at ENMP. But the highlight of the trip was a fun performance we did along with fellow musician and friend, Arnovo! It was great to see some old friends and make new ones!

More to come about our great European Adventure!!!........

Almer&Nirvan: Clip from Concert!

2011-08-25T20:54:00.000-07:00

Here's a video from the fantastic debut concert of Almer & Nirvan. They played last Friday to a sold out audience in South Pasadena. The audience loved their fresh take on some old, traditional tunes from the Balkans but the surprise of the night were the three original songs that stole the show....Almer even had his vocal debut in their title track "Life in Reverse". The evening was made even more memorable with the attendance of some special VIP guests including the beautiful Semira Hadzimehmedagic: Miss Bosnia 2011, the talented and successful actor, Edin Gali: Mad Men, the legendary jazz virtuoso violinist, Michael White and wife Leisei, who was the violinist for John Coltrane, and Maya Bristow, President of the Croatian Cultural Center.

The video was captured by an amazing photographer and friend, Mirza Todorovich whose work can be seen at www.lightalongthecoast.com.

ALMER & NIRVAN IN CONCERT: Friday, Aug. 19th

2011-08-12T20:23:00.000-07:00

This is going to be a night to remember!

Almer & Nirvan (guitar and vocals) will be presenting a great program of Bosnian, Balkan, and original songs in an intimate, acoustic setting. This concert commemorates the release of their first CD project together : Life in Reverse

Here is the info:

Friday, August 19th, 2011
8:00pm
$15.00

South Pasadena Music Center and Conservatory
1509 Mission Street
South Pasadena, CA 91030

There will be LIMITED SEATING so to purchase your tickets in advance CLICK HERE

Tickets to Europe and more!

2011-07-30T10:34:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,
I wanted to introduce my friend Jazmir's company. It's called TRAVELBIH.COM He is had been my travel agent since I moved to the USA and always helps me find great tickets to go on tour! Give him a try and he can help you get the best deal out there!

Here is the website: http://travelbih.com/

Thank you Jazmir!!

Almer and Nirvan in LMP Studios!

2011-07-21T14:47:00.000-07:00

We have an exciting new project to share with you. Almer is currently working on a new album with good friend and exceptional musician, Nirvan. The album features new arrangements of the greatest sevadlinka with some great orginals by Almer and Nirvan. It is mostly just two guitars and voice but we have a few guest artists that bring another level of musicianship to this projects:

Nivan: Vocals and guitar
Almer: Guitar and bass
Bob Dominguez: Drums and percussion
Lauren Baba: Violin
Jessica Pierce: Flute

...and hopefully a few more instrumentalists will be added to this great mix :)

Recording/Mixing/Mastering by the one and only Jim Linahon at LMP Studios!!!!

Included are some photos from the sessions last week!

The release of this CD is planned for early September....with concerts in LA and Sarajevo!

MORE TO FOLLOW!!!!!!

NEW SHEET MUSIC NOW AVAILABLE!!!!!!

2011-06-21T11:58:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends,

We are pleased to announce that the sheet music from our After Hours album is now ready and is available through our website in PDF form sent straight to your email address!!

Just purchase the scores through PayPal and once we receive your email address the music will be sent directly to you! It will include the SCORE, FLUTE (or violin), and GUITAR parts.

I know many of you have been waiting a long time for these scores...thank you for your patience and ENJOY!!!!!

To order, CLICK HERE

NOW AVAILABLE:

Jovano, Jovanke
Zajdi, Zajdi
Rain
Massimo Dancing
Love
Kafana

as well as a new version of Sarajevo Nights for GUITAR QUARTET!!!!

Almer Imamovic playing Pujol's 'El Abejorro'

2011-06-16T08:39:00.000-07:00

Please join us TOMORROW NIGHT!!!! Wednesday, June 15 at 8pm

2011-06-14T20:11:00.000-07:00

Time	Wednesday, June 15 · 8:00pm - 10:30pm

Location	Paper or Plastik Cafe and Mimoda studio & theatre 5772 west Pico blvd - Entrance through Paper or Plastik Cafe Los Angeles, CA

Created By	Maksim Velichkin, Jacob Michelson

More Info	Concert at Mimoda Studio courtesy of Yasha Michelson of Mimoda Jazzo hosted by Maksim Velichkin suggested donation -$10, student with id -$5, musicians who have performed previously-free ...PROGRAMME Z. Kodaly Sonata for solo cello, 1st movement Ruslan Biryukov-cello Alma Nova Duo performs Sarajevo Nights by Almer Imamovic Bitola by Petar Georgiev Kalica/arr. A. Imamovic Jovano, Jovanke Trad. Macedonian/arr. A Imamovic Jamilla's Dance by Almer Imamovic Song For Marcus by Almer Imamovic Journey by Almer Imamovic Kafana by Almer Imamovic Jessica Pierce-flute, Almer Imamovic-guitar Intermission J.S. Bach Prelude and Sarabande from Suite # 1 Joo Lee-cello G.N. Gianopoulos Romanza for 2 celli Joo Lee, Maksim Velichkin-celli Music of S. J. Pettersson Excerpts From “The Dracula Letters” 1. Leaving The West – Harout Senekeremian piano, Joo Lee cello, Maksim Velichkin accordion, Stig Petersson glockenspiel 2. Dear Mina – Oxana Senina soprano, Harout Senekeremian piano, Joo Lee cello, Maksim Velichkin accordion, Andrew Leonard clarinet, Stig Petersson glockenspiel 3. Dearest Jonathan – Oxana Senina soprano, Harout Senekeremian piano, Joo Lee cello 4. Water Sleeps, But The Enemy Is Sleepless – Harout Senekeremian piano, Joo Lee cello, Stig Petersson glockenspiel 5. Dear Lucy (Unopened) – Oxana Senina soprano, Harout Senekeremian piano, Joo cello, Maksim Velichkin accordion Excerpts from “A Dream Play” 1. Prelude - Harout Senekeremian piano, Joo Lee cello 2. The Ballerina – Oxana Senina soprano, Harout Senekeremian piano, Joo Lee cello, Stig Petersson glockenspiel, Andrew Leonard clarinet 3. Fairbay Tango - Harout Senekeremian piano, Andrew Leonard clarinet, Maksim Velichkin accordion, Joo Lee cello, Stig Petersson glockenspiel

Sound of the Balkans: Bosana Foundation's 2nd Annual Fundraising Concert and Silent Auction

2011-06-10T13:33:00.000-07:00

There is small number of tickets available for sale (CASH ONLY) at:
Aroma Cafe,
2530 Overland Avenue, LA, CA, 90064.
Tel: (310) 836 2919.
Call to inquire for availability.

A special thanks...

2011-05-24T11:40:00.000-07:00

Our dear friend and great guitarist Esai Saucedo recently completed his junior recital at Cal State Northridge with flying colors! In addition to an exciting program featuring Coste, Piazzolla and Albeniz, we were so pleased to hear two pieces by Almer! Almer wrote a piece called La Nuit avec PK for solo guitar in 1999. It is a very difficult work meant to strengthen the pinky finger in the left hand. Esai worked extremely hard on this piece and played it effortlessly! He also put together Uzeh Djugum i Mastrafu with violin Juliana Katzman. They performed solidly as a duo, adding their own unique musicianship and personalities to the piece, moving us both to tears! There is nothing more satisfying for a composer than to see your works being performed by live musicians!

In addition to classical guitar, Esai explores the music of other cultures through his group, Conquistadores, a three man acoustic group consisting requinto, classical guitar, stand-up bass together with vocals. They perform a traditional serenade style ensemble with repertoire ranging from latin, mexican folk, jazz and pop. Check out their Facebook page and join them for their next gig!

We want to thank our dear friend Esai and all the musicians who performed Almer's compositions! Thank you for keeping our music alive and thriving!

Student Spotlight!

2011-05-09T14:36:00.000-07:00

There is nothing more satisfying to an instructor than to see your students thrive! Last week one of my students, Angie, gave a wonderful recital. Her parents are professional musicians in their homeland of Chile and came to the US for a visit. As a way to commemorate their stay in the US they decided to present a program of flute, bassoon and piano music for their family and friends. Angie worked very hard on the repertoire and amazed everyone in attendance. Besides the wonderful music, it was so touching to see a family of musicians performing together! Almer and I realized this was the true power of music...it is something we all can enjoy and appreciate at any age. Angie's parents gave her a beautiful gift when she was a child and she has carried that gift with her into her adulthood....and now SHE is inspiring her own 4 children!

Congratulations Angie!!!!

Moj Golube (from the student days at USC)

2011-04-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

Great Chamber Music Venue in SoCal!

2011-03-29T18:38:00.000-07:00

Dear friends and fellow musicians,

We wanted to take this opportunity to introduce you to a brand new concert series in the LA area. Marilyn Sanguinet is bringing chamber music to Riverside at the Air Force Village West in their beautiful on-site chapel. We felt it was very important to bring some attention to this series for a variety of reasons. Firstly, Marilyn is extremely organized and is a musician herself and knows what it takes to create a pleasant experience for both the performers as well as the audience memebrs. It is through her love of music and lack of chamber music in her community that prompted her to start the series. She is a joy to work with! Secondly, the venue is beautiful and the acousitics are great. It is an intimate chapel that seats about 140. It is interesting to note that the residents themselves raised the money to build the chapel on their property, so you can imagine the special meaning it has for them. In addition, they have a state of the art recording equipment on site and provide an engineer. You receive a great video recording with multiple camera angles! It's quite impressive! Lastly, the audience is simply wonderful. They were so polite, attentive and appreciative. They were eager to hear something new and broaden their knowledge of classical music! It was a terrific experience and a truly wonderful afternoon. If any of our friends in chamber music would like more info about the series please send us an email and we will forward you Marilyn's contact info!

Thanks for reading!

Jessica and Almer

The Guitar Hands promo from the NAMM Show 2011 (playing the new model Hill Stage guitar)

2011-03-15T22:42:00.001-07:00

CONCERT: Sunday March 6, 2011 @ 3:00 PM

2011-02-28T10:49:00.000-08:00

Brand Library Music Series

with

AlmaNova

Sunday March 6th

3pm

FREE

Reception to follow!

Please join us for a program of Piazzolla, Giuliani, Ravel, Ibert and of course, Imamovic!

Brand Library Music Series
1601 West Mountain Street
Glendale, California 91201-1200
818-548-2051
818-548-5079 FAX

Upcoming perfomances in March 2011

2011-02-24T15:23:00.000-08:00

Brand Library Concert Series

Glendale, CA

March 6

3:00pm

Village Concerts

Riverside, CA

March 13

TBA

Trinity Chamber Concerts

Berkeley, CA

March 19

8:00pm

Almer Imamovic interview by Vesna Andree Zaimovic

2011-02-11T12:20:00.001-08:00

Ekskluzivni intervju: Almer Imamović

Foto: Almir Zrno

Na koncertu Sarajevske filharmonije u petak 30. oktobra imat ćemo rijetku priliku da uživo slušamo jedan koncert za gitaru - bit će to poznati koncert Aranjuez Joakina Rodriga, koji će uz dirigenta Philla Simmonsa, kao solista izvesti Almer Imamović.

To je i povodo razgovora sa ovim gitaristom koji je svoje školovanje započeo u Sarajevu kod profesorice Mile Rakanović, a danas je umjetnički direktor i voditelj odsjeka za gitaru na South Pasadena Music Center and Conservatory. Recimo i to da Almer sa svojom suprugom Jessicom Pierce djeluje i kao duo Almanova (www.almanovaduo.com), a u tom sastavu objavili su tri albuma, od kojih je jedan nagrađen kao izbor američke kritike.

RadioSarajevo: Koncerti za gitaru i simfonijski orkestar nisu toliko česta pojava u klasičnoj muzičkoj literaturi. Do sada ste svirali sa još nekim simfonijskim orkestrima - kakva su vaša iskustva u tom smislu i koja ste djela do sada izvodili?
Imamović: Jedan od razloga da krenem na studij gitare je bio i to što ću jednoga dana svirati s orkestrom. To je prelijep doživljaj. Svirao sam sa Dejtonskom filharmonijom, sa Stivers filharmoničarima i uglavnom je to bio Rodrigov koncert Aranhuez.

Možda je jedan od razloga što smo se i u slučaju Sarajevske filharmonije odlučili za to je komplicirana procedura iznajmljivanja nota za neke druge koncerte. Za ovaj koncert se mogu nabaviti note za cijeli orkestar.

Aranhuez je san svakog gitariste, ima prelijepu orkestraciju i prelijepu ulogu gitare. To je remek djelo prošlog stoljeća. Po jednoj BBC-jevoj anketi, ovaj koncert je najslušanije djelo umjetničke muzike iz perioda od zadnjih 100 godina.

Iza ovog djela krije se kompozitorova osobna tragedija. Naime, 1938 godine on je započeo pisati koncert, a njegova supruga je trebala da se porodi. Nastale su komplikacije i dijete je bilo mrtvorođeno. Te noći, dok su se ljekari borili za život Rodrigove supruge, on je napisao upravo drugi stav. To je dakle molitva, razgovor i bijes na Boga, kao i njegovo odnos prema čitavoj situaciji. To sam naučio od Peppe Romera koji je bio Rodrigov prijatelj.

RadioSarajevo: Da li pripremate još neko koncertno djelo s orkestrom?
Imamović: Ja uvijek u rukavu imam Tedescov Concerto koji mi se jako sviđa, kao i Vivaldijev koji sam svirao sa London Mozart Players.

Ono što za mene predstavla životni san je Serenada Malcolma Arnolda – izvanredna simfonijeta u trajanju od nekih četrnaest minuta, kao i Concerto Lea Browera.

Naravno da bih volio svirati i druge koncerte, ali je veoma komplicirano pronaći i iznajmiti note za cijeli orkestar. Takođe, situacija sa publikom nije baš najsjajnija, a da biste pribukli publiku, morate im ponuditi popularna djela. Ista je situacija i sa violončelom – oni iz sličnih razloga najčešće sviraju Dvoržaka.

RadioSarajevo: Susreli ste se sa dirigentom – kakvi su prvi utisci sa probe?
Dirigenta sam upoznao u februaru kada je prisustvovao koncertu našeg dua AlmaNova. Dobro se razumijemo pa mislim da će koncert biti izvanredan.

RadioSarajevo: Studirali ste kod sarajevske profesorice Mile Rakanović, koja je odgojila mnoge generacije gitarista. Nakon što ste počeli studirati kod nje, dobili ste stipendiju za Pariz. Kakve ste gitarističke temelje ponijeli sa sobom?
Imamović: Ja bih se htio zahvaliti mojoj dragoj profesorici od koje sam, kao i mnoge druge moje kolege, dobio ogromno znanje i podršku. Za ilustraciju onoga koliko smo mi znali i naučili ovdje i koliko je sarajevska škola poznata, ne samo na Balkanu nego i u svijetu, ispričat ću šta mi se desilo na prijemnom u Parizu.

Dao sam komisiji spisak dugačak dvije A4 strane – bile su to kompozicije koje sam spremio za prijemni, a na dodatne dvije strane je bilo još naslova koje sam presvirao tokom školovanja u Sarajevu. Profesor nije mogao vjerovati. Počeo se šaliti sa mnom – uperi prstom u neki naslov, a ja počnem svirati. Tako sam svirao nekih desetak minuta i oni su me primili, a istovremeno mi organizirali solistički koncert u Parizu.

Mi smo u Sarajevu zaista imali izvrsnu školu – naša tehnika je bila dobra, naše znanje ogromno, kao i literatura koju smo svirali.

Ja ne vjerujem da se na zapadu toliko pažnje posvećuje gitari kako je to bilo u Sarajevu. Naš sistem školovanja u srednjoj školi je u tom smislu bio bolji – puno smo više pažnje posvećivali osnovnoj struci.

RadioSarajevo: Vaša naobrazba okrunjena je studiranjem kod Pepea Romera i Scotta Tennanta. Koliko ste naučili od ovih svjetski poznatih virtuoza?
Imamović: Puno. S obzirom da je moja ljubav, Jessica, živjela u Los Angelesu, odlučio sam se da poslije magistarskog studija u Wellsu krenem na USC (University of Southern Calliformia) na kojoj je Thornton School of Music, koji je jedna od najboljih muzičkih škola u Americi. Tu sam primljen na postdiplomske studije kod Scotta Tennanta. Pepe Romero je legenda gitare a Tennant je novi kralj gitare u Americi. On je izuzetan čovjek i professor.

Kada ste na tom levelu među izabranima, onda je vaš napredak ostvariv onoliko koliko vi želite da bude. Kada vi sjedite sa Pepe Romerom vama više ne trebaju skale i arpeggia, savjeti kako da svirate – vi učite finesse, vi učite trikove od najvećioh šampiona. Veoma važne teme za mene su bile prstomet i to kako pristupite kompoziciji.

Od Romera sam puno naučio o umjetnosti, fraziranju, a posebno sviranju Rodrigovih i inače španskih kompozitora. Od Scotta sam dobio teničku čistoću. On je jako pedantan i čist svirač kod kojeg svaka nota teži miloion. Sa obojicom sam ostao prijatelj i družimo se.

RadioSarajevo: Koliko je u Americi, gdje živite, gitara cijenjen instrument? Da li koncertirate često?
Imamović: Mislim da je gitara mnogo prihvaćenija u BiH, bar tako je bilo prije rata. Američka publika razlikuje više vrsta gitara – ono što je sviram je „Spanish guitar“. Oni poznaju „Blues guitar“, „Finger Style“… Što se tiče klasične gitare, zvijezde kao Pepe i Scott imaju posjećene koncerte. Amerika je u svom načinu prihvatanja muzike veoma otvorena, što pokazuju brojni kompozitori koji tu žive i stvaraju, ali i veooma konzervativna. Recimo da vole španski repertoar, ali ranu muziku ili barok baš i ne. U New Yorku ili u Kaliforniji je drugačije, ali u unutrašjosti su prilično konzervativni.

Sreća je pa imaju razne organizacije i mnoga gitaristička društva koja pomažu propagiranju gitare. U zadnje vrijeme tu su i novi načini studiranja gitare. U mojoj školi sada može da se izučava klasičnu ili jazz ili pop gitaru.

RadioSarajevo: Da li sa Jessicom izvodite savremena djela? Pretpostavljam da vaši prijatelji kompoziroti skladaju za vas.
Imamović: Mi imamo puno prijatelja koji su kompozitori i dobili smo puno kompozicija. Raditi sa kompozitorima je divno ali iscrpljujuće. Potrebno je inenzivno surađivati s njima ukoliko ne znaju svirati gitaru, jer u protivnom morate sami raditi na prstometu, a često se neki akordi ne mogu odsvirat. To su obimna i kompleksna djela i nije ni malo jednostavno pretočiti nečije zamisli u logičan prstomet na gitari. Petnaestak kompozicija trenutno čeka na reviziju.

Međutim Jessica i ja smo se odlučili da sami radimo i stvaramo svoje kompozicije. Naš ansambl Almanova spada u žanr classical crossover, koji je veoma popularan u Americi. To rade i Yoyo Ma, Los Angeles Quartet… Na prvom albumu smo obrađivali sevdalinke, a na drugom tradicionalne i narodne pjesme iz Makedonije.

RadioSarajevo: Osim klasične gitare, svirate i električnu, flamenko gitaru, mandolinu... Kako, zašto i kada ste počeli izlaziti iz okvira klasične gitare? Da li su za vas ti transferi bili tehnički zahtjevni?
Imamović: Ja sam oduvijek uz klasičnu gitaru svirao i električnu. Još dok sam živio u Foči, svirao sam u hard rock grupi Nostradamus i električna gitara mi je nešto uobičajeno i danas. Jedino je bitno da ta dva instrumenta ne sviram u istom periodu. Dakle, ako par mjeseci sviram električnu, onda neću svirati klasičnu – zbog tehnike.

Flamenko gitaru sam izučavao u Parizu, a tamo sam i svirao u flamenko grupi. Svirajući sa špancima naučio sam dosta trikova. U Engleskoj su me prijatelji Grci naučili da sviram buzuki i juras, pa smo svirali tu muziku u grčkom restoranima. U Americi imam bend sa kojim sviramo „naše“ pjesme.

Za svoj zadnji film sam morao da naučim charangue, kubanski tres i mandolinu.

RadioSarajevo: Taj filmski angažman je nedavno realiziran. Radi se o komercijalnom filmu From Mexico With Love. Kako je došlo do suradnje s kompozitorom?
Imamović: John Frizzeli je poznati kompozitor filmske muzike koji je radio npr. muziku za film Alien. Do mog imena je došao putem preporuke prijatelja. Pozvao me telefonom i pitao da li mogu da sviram to i to… naravno da sam rekao da mogu.

Noć prije odlaska u studio dobio sam mp3 i preslušavao – a onda je počela seansa snimanja. Od mene se očekivalo dosta improvizacija na zadate elemente i bilo je tu mnogo posla. Morao sam odlučiti koji žičani instrumenti će se koristiti na kojem dijelu partiture, a sve sam dionice morao sam odsvirati. Svaki od tih instrumenata se drugačije štima, pa je bilo je potrebno dosta koncentracije. Film je već imao svoju premijeru i posebno mi je drago da ima puno gitare u finalnoj verziji.

RadioSarajevo: Zanimljivo je da i vi, a i vaša supruga Jessica imate svoje sponzore instrumenata.
Imamović: Jessica je tokom studija upoznala Sankyo flautu i od tada je taj proizvođač sponzorira instrumentima. A moja gitara je Kenny Hill – priča oko toga je veoma zanimljiva.

Naime, Kenny Hill je majstor gitare iz Santa Cruza. Jednom prilikom sam osvojio njegovu gitaru kao nagradu i od tada smo prijatelji. Međutim obojica imamo mnogo problema s leđima, pa ponekad ne možemo svirati. Tako je Kenny smislio način sviranja klasične gitare stojeći. Prototip takve gitare sam dobio od njega. Tijelo gitare u gornjem dijelu je donekle suženo, kako bi ruka mogla normalno da pada, takođe je vrat donekle uzvišen, kao kod violončela. Na vrhu tijela gitare postoje i dvije rupe kroz koje izlazi energija. Uglavnom, veoma moderan način gradnje gitare.

Meni taj stojeći način sviranja odgovara pogotovo kada sviram duet sa Jessicom, koja takođe stoji dok svira. Mnogo je bilji zvuk. Međutim, sada u Los Angelesu već ima sedam klasičnih gitarista koji stojeći sviraju.

RadioSarajevo: To će spasiti mnogu djecu od iskrivljenja kičme.
Imamović: Sigurno. Ja sada nemam više problema i mogu svirati bez prestanka tri sata. Pored toga, u muzičkom smislu se možete jako lijepo izraziti.

From Radio Sarajevo 90,20 MHz (Beta)

Almer at NAMM and the new Hill Stage Guitar!

2011-01-18T10:27:00.000-08:00

Well, it was a huge hit! The new Hill Guitar Company's infamous Stage Guitar made it's debut at this year's NAMM Show! I had the great pleasure of premiering the guitar and wanted to share it with all of you! To read more about it, click here and read Kenny Hill's Blog!

Almer Imamovic with Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra

2011-01-03T23:30:00.000-08:00

New Stage Guitar by Hill Guitar Co.!

2010-12-29T10:34:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

I wanted to share some exciting news in the world of guitars! My dear friend and luthier extraordinaire, Mr. Kenny Hill from the Hill Guitar Co., is currently working on a stage guitar! This is something Kenny and I have been talking about for quite sometime and it is very exciting to know it is in the works. I told him I needed something loud with a beautiful sound for live concerts and when I play with bands. Check out this picture of the prototype!

I will be demonstrating this new guitar at the 2011 NAMM Show in Anaheim. Stop by the Hill Guitar Co. Booth if you want to check it out!

HILL GUITAR @
Anaheim NAMM Show 2011
January 13 - 16
Anaheim Convention Center

Hall E
Booth 1418

See you there,
Almer

AlmaNova CD's: Great Holiday Gifts!!!!

2010-12-07T13:38:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends!

Give the gift of music this year! AlmaNova's three exciting CD's are available for purchase just in time for the holidays!

AlmaNova "Debut"
AlmaNova "Classic Giuliani"
AlmaNova "After Hours"

CLICK HERE to buy your copies today!

Sheet music also available!

Cheers and Happy Holidays!

Almer and Jessica

AlmaNova in Santa Monica: Dec. 12, 2010

2010-11-30T13:15:00.000-08:00

A. K. GRIFFITH
Special Showing for the Holidays!
International, Whimsical and Local Pieces
Plus
Artist’s Unique Boutique Items for Great Gifts!!
And
LIVE MUSIC BY INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED ALMANOVA DUO

DON’T MISS THIS ONE!!!!

PRESENTED BY:

PEAK PERFORMANCE
ORTHOPEDIC AND SPORTS PHYSICAL THERAPY

900 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 315
Santa Monica, CA 90401

www.AboutPeak.com

November 7, 2010 – January 15, 2011
Monday – Friday 9am – 6pm

Open House and Reception
Sunday, December 12th
3:00pm-6:00pm
RSVP 310.434.2400

AlmaNova plays in Santa Clara this Saturday!

2010-11-30T13:11:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Please join us for a very special performance of our 'Balkan' repertoire this Saturday at the De Saisset Museum on the Santa Clara University campus. Our performance will conclude the 4th Annual Bosnian-Herzegovinian-American Academy Meeting. This is a free performance that is open to the general public!!! Please join us!

Here are the details:
Saturday, Dec. 4th, 2010
6pm
De Saisset Museum

Santa Clara University
500 El Camino Real
Santa Clara, CA 95053
408-554-4000

FREE and open to the public!!

Great Teachers, Almer interviewed by Sean McGowan

2010-11-24T19:12:00.000-08:00

Almer Imamovic

By Sean McGowan

Photo Credit: Almin Zrno

Bosnian guitarist Almer Imamovic is part of a new generation of progressive classical guitarists who inform their playing and teaching with influences from inside and outside classical music traditions. Like many contemporary classical artists, Imamovic understands the relevance of folk styles, jazz, flamenco, and even rock, integrating them into his arrangements and performance style. Imamovic’s musical diversity crosses many stylistic and international borders: he has performed with the London Mozart Players, the Sarajevo Philharmonic, Bosnian pop star Al’Dino; played solo jazz guitar in Paris cafes; and worked as a studio guitarist.

Imamovic’s teaching style reflects this diverse, multicultural approach. His broad range of experience has helped shape his teaching philosophy and the cultivation of open-mindedness, uniqueness, and musical expression in his students.

A DIVERSE MUSICAL UPBRINGING CREATES A DIVERSE TEACHER
Born in Foca, Bosnia, Imamovic began playing guitar at age seven, and later engaged in serious study under renowned teacher Mila Rakanovic. With Rakanovic, Imamovic received extensive instruction in the Italian tradition with a focus on musicality and artistic expression. Later, he studied at the École Normale de Musique de Paris and earned a master’s degree from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.

Now living in the US, Imamovic is continuing his graduate studies at the University of Southern California under Scott Tennant, who taught him the importance of open-mindedness in becoming a complete musician. Imamovic credits Tennant and others with being part of a “new school of classical guitarists” who incorporate many different methods, in addition to classical guitar technique, to articulate their ultimate musical expression.

THE TIME DIFFERENCE
One difference between guitar pedagogy in Bosnia and in the US is the time devoted to lessons. In Bosnia, if a young person showed interest in an artistic discipline, he could enroll in a state-funded school that fostered arts education to a greater degree than schools in the US. Imamovic, who spent two or more hours of every school day studying guitar in Bosnia, wishes students in the US could devote more time to arts studies. Most Americans are accustomed to taking a single weekly music lesson. In that amount of time Imamovic finds it difficult to accomplish as much as he wants with serious students and encourages them to meet two or three times a week for a minimum of an hour. The fast pace of life in the US has moved Imamovic to caution parents of younger students against saturating their children’s schedules, since music demands a considerable amount of time spent practicing at home, not just at the lesson.

THE TEACHER AS ROLE MODEL
Many guitar teachers in Bosnia, especially before the war years in the mid-1990s, held state-funded, salaried positions at schools such as the one Imamovic attended. Imamovic points out how teachers acted as cultural role models throughout the war’s darkest days. He relates stories of how teachers continued lessons and student recitals, even during times of frequent bombing or sniper attacks. Under such conditions, Imamovic stresses the importance of art and music in keeping a community’s spirit alive.

Imamovic’s own guitar teacher, Mila Rakanovic, was once a victim of cross fire on her way to teach a lesson and sustained permanent arm damage. “Her bravery and care for her students above all was limitless and continues to inspire me now,” he says. “From her, I learned never to give up on your students.”

Imamovic once served a three-month residency in England teaching group lessons to people who had suffered serious brain trauma. As part of therapy, they could choose between two hours of art or classical guitar a day.

His residency culminated in a concert featuring patients in duo and ensemble formats—remarkable considering many had deficiencies in memory and communication skills. “I remember the joy in their eyes,” Imamovic recalls. “It was a fantastic day, and one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever been part of. I felt proud that I helped bring some happiness to them through music. As a teacher, it’s extremely important to support your students and let them know you’re always there for them.”

THE IMPORTANCE OF RECITALS
“By the time I was 15,” Imamovic recalls, “I had played several times on television and traveled to other countries performing in guitar ensembles of all sizes.” He provides similar experiences for his students.

“When your students play in ensembles, they learn to be professional in a performance situation. They learn how to listen, to play with others, and to be connected to the music and with each other, and it definitely improves their reading. These experiences are unforgettable because the students become part of a community. This is what I’d like them to experience.”

To this end, Imamovic places great emphasis on student recitals with his current students. He believes in the pragmatic application of lesson material and prepares his students for several recitals throughout the year.

“I always like to have a recital ending a session or season,” says Imamovic. “After that, we can open new doors and work on new concepts to prepare for the next one. That way, students stay focused and have something to work toward. Plus, it makes them feel comfortable performing because they’re doing it regularly. I always perform with them as well, so it’s a collaborative effort.”

INTRODUCING FRESH MATERIAL
Finally, Imamovic emphasizes keeping lessons fresh by constantly introducing new repertoire that resonates with each student. “There is so much great material out there now,” he says. “I don’t necessarily subscribe to the older tradition of having students learn the same pieces with the same fingerings and perfecting them for the next ten years. I prefer to constantly expand the repertoire to help the student find a unique voice through diversity of material.”

Rather than strictly adhering to standard material from Carcassi to Tarrega to Bach, Imamovic gives his students pieces from different cultural sources as well as contemporary guitar music from new composers. Imamovic believes strongly in players creating their own unique repertoire that reflects their personality. “As my teacher in Bosnia used to say,” he remembers, “‘If you copy somebody, you’re always going to be a very bleached copy—you’ll never be original.’”

Almer’s Advice
The Third-Week Challenge
Although he favors a casual lesson atmosphere, Imamovic uses this technique to prevent lessons from becoming predictable. “Even with very talented students, you need to maintain a focus,” he says. “So, usually around the third week of the month, sometimes randomly, I become tough and really push them. Maybe I’ll force them to sight-read or give them a very demanding piece. They will usually start practicing harder and perform better in the next lesson. You have to be tough, but also fair, and give them a break from time to time.”

To hear audio samples or purchase recordings by Almer Imamovic, visit his website: www.almanova.us/

From Guitar Teacher Magazine

CALIFORNIAN: AlmaNova duo mixes business with pleasure

2010-11-12T21:27:00.000-08:00

CALIFORNIAN: AlmaNova duo mixes business with pleasure

By CHARLES HAND - For The Californian North County Times - Californian | Posted: Wednesday, November 3, 2010 4:42 pm |

Jessica Pierce was an average American girl, no more interested in becoming a flutist than any other girl, probably. So, how she ended up a graduate of the Ecole Normale de Musique de Paris, married to and touring with a Bosnian guitarist she met by accident and with whom she will perform as the Alma Nova duo in the Nov. 7 installment of Classics at the Merc is something of a tale.

Even Pierce's decision to take up the flute when she joined her middle school band was an accident. She just liked the instrument. A supportive family and quality teachers helped.

"I was lucky to have very good teachers," Pierce said.

It was not until she was in college that she decided on a career as a musician, however. Her flute teacher was French and recommended the Ecole Normale de Musique, which fit well with her studies in French as a college student, as well as her interest in the flute.

Not that she was otherwise prepared for what followed.

Without knowing exactly what she would do to set up a life in France beyond a friend of a family friend who could offer a place to live for a couple of weeks, Pierce headed for Paris.

"It's something I don't think I would do now," she says today, a repatriated San Diego resident and holder of master's and doctorate degrees from USC.

On the other hand, the presence of her husband, Almer Imamovic is anything but accidental, even if their relationship was. They were introduced by a mutual friend on the Ecole Normal de Musique campus on a day when neither had a class ---- they had no classes together in any case ---- and were at the school on other business.

Almer Imamovic was a student of the classical guitar who came to music through a route no less serendipitous than Pierce's. As a 7-year-old, he had an opportunity to take up the accordion, a very popular instrument in his native Sarajevo.

His mother talked him into the guitar instead.

"My mother said the guitar was cooler," Imamovic said.

By 10 years of age he had put together a rock-and-roll garage band that occasionally did gigs, mostly for free, but sometimes paid. They played larger and larger festivals as they got better and better. That the band played rock is not as odd as it may seem.

"Bosnia was the center of rock," Imamovic said.

At the same time, he studied classical guitar. On the electric guitar, he played rock. But he owned a classical guitar and studied it as well.

Unfortunately, that guitar was at home when the Bosnian war broke out and he was in high school and could not get home. For four years he could not practice classical guitar and was on the verge of giving it up when he finished high school.

Those four years are considered essential time in the development of young guitarists, a time when muscles are easily trained, when information is easily absorbed. His family thought his future lay in electrical engineering anyway. But, in one year of four-hour-a-day practices, he recovered his skill on the classical guitar.

At the end of that year, he auditioned for the Ecole Normal de Musique and won a full scholarship to the renowned school, where he studied all four of the major classical guitar styles.

When they graduated, Pierce and Imamovic headed in different directions, he to England to focus on the English style of classical guitar and she to San Diego where she enrolled at USC to finish her musical education.

When Imamovic finished his studies in England, he joined Pierce in California and they began performing together.

And Imamovic began composing in yet another serendipitous turn of events. One day he did a bit of improvisational composition during a performance and afterward was approached to write it down and to compose more. To make a long story short, he did and today is published around the world.

His compositions are drawn from the folk tunes of his native land. Some of them will be incorporated into this weekend's performance at the Merc, along with classical works by Beethoven contemporary Giuliani, by one of the few composers who wrote for flute and guitar, Astor Piazolla, and numbers from their CDs.

Their first recording, 'Debut', is of works by Imamovic.

It was recently named best instrumental album of 2009 and one of the cuts named best instrumental song of 2009 by the largest worldwide organization of independent musicians.

Their second CD, 'Classic Giuliani' was presented the 2008 Critic's Choice award by American Record Guide.

Classics at the Merc

3 p.m. Nov. 7

The Merc, Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula

$11 general, $5 students with ID

866-653-8696

temeculatheater.org

By CHARLES HAND - For The Californian North County Times - Californian

The Sound of the Balkans, Music that transcends boundaries and Divisions

2010-10-29T15:59:00.000-07:00

AlmaNova with Matt, live at Coffee Gallery Backstage Altadena,CA

2010-10-29T14:40:00.000-07:00

AlmaNova in Altadena: Wednesday, Oct. 27th

2010-10-19T11:10:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Please join us for a memorable night of music at the legendary Coffee Gallery Backstage!!! AlmaNova will be performing with percussionist-extraordinaire, Matt Hillegass. It will be a great night of exciting music...hope to see you there!

Help support local live music!!!!!

Here are the details:

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 27 @ 8pm

$15.00

The Coffee Gallery Backstage
2029 N. Lake Ave.
Altadena, CA 91001
Reservations/Information: (626)794-2424

Duo Tapas from New Zealand performing Almer's "Jamilla's Dance" and "Sarajevo Nights"

2010-10-11T08:56:00.000-07:00

Concerts in October: Bay Area and Southern California Performances!

2010-10-01T18:03:00.000-07:00

We hope you can join us!

Wednesday, October 13th
12 noon
Santa Clara University
Santa Clara, CA

Thursday, October 14th
8pm
Concerts at Old St. Hilary's
Tiburon, CA

Sunday, October 24th
5pm
Epiphany Music Guild
Oak Park, CA

Wednesday, October 27th (with Matt Hillegass, percussion)
8pm
The Coffee Gallery Backstage
Altadena, CA

Review of "After Hours" in SOUNDBOARD Magazine

2010-09-17T20:53:00.000-07:00

Review of After Hours from AlmaNova (Jessica Pierce, flute and Almer Imamovic, guitar)

Two earlier discs by AlmaNova were well received here and this one is also very engaging. Much of it involves the infectious mixed meters of Imamovic’s native Balkan region, but there are also pieces of a very intense, sinuous and melodic beauty. Some are original works by the duo while others are arrangements. It all holds together very well. It begins with Bosna Nova (no, it’s not a misprint) with the guitarist multi-tracked on steel string and classical guitars, a texture used repeatedly and effectively on the disc. (The flute is also multi-tracked occasionally.) Among my favorite cuts are the fourth, Zajdi, Zajdi, a hauntingly beautiful melody, and the sixth, Jovano, Jovanke, which the notes call “a highly energetic arrangement of an old traditional Macedonian folk song.” Yes, indeed. The energy is aided by very nice percussion work by the guitar. Massimo Dancing, inspired by the artist’s nephew, is another gem. These are very sophisticated arrangements for flute(s), guitar(s), and percussion: the musical structures, though miniature, are impressive. Liner notes and recording quality are fine. I enjoyed this disc very much. In fact, it made me want to grab the guitar and start improvising in 7/x. Luckily there was no one to hear the result!

By: Al Kunze
Soundboard, vol. XXXV, No. 3, pg. 117

AlmaNova in Tiburon, CA Oct. 14th @ 8pm!

2010-09-10T20:14:00.001-07:00

Almer Imamovic "Putnik s gitarom" by Milenko Miso Maric

2010-08-25T16:44:00.000-07:00

ALMER IMAMOVIĆ
Milenko Mišo Marić

Almer Imamović
Putnik s gitarom

Almer Imamović je gitarista. Imamović je od rođenja, a gitarista od osme godine. I po prezimenu i po instrumentu asocijacije su jednako muzičke. Na pomen Imamovića čujem Zaima kako sevdiše kraj tanana šadrvana. Il' objašnjava zašto je Bosna divna, mila... Plemenita. Na pomen gitare čujem španske Berbere s dugim prstima kako prebiraju po žicama pod džinovskom narančom Mjeseca, nad Andaluzijom. Dok zaljubljen Lorkin Gitano nosi dragu na rijeku. Niko ne zna šta mu je rekla. Sigurno je da su se ljiljani mačevali s vjetrom i da su sevdisali. Jer kojeg bi je vraga nosio na rijeku dok se negdje daleko za noćnom vodom gitara sjećala Alhambre. "Oh, gitaro/ srce ranjeno/ sa pet mačeva./" - uzdisao je Lorka. "Sve što radim je vezano za gitaru. Lijepo je imati uz sebe, putovati i živjeti uz gitaru", kaže Almer dok u Los Anđelosu završava novi CD i s dvije svoje najveće ljubavi, Džesikom i gitarom sprema put treće, Bosne. Iz koje je, s gitarom, krenuo u svijet.

O zavičaju, gitari i sevdahu govori:
- Mislim da smo svi mi Bosanci i Hercegovci sevdah porodica. S puno topline se sjeæam familijarnih sijela uz harmoniku i sevdalinke. Moj otac Alija je izvanredan pjevač i pjesma je uvijek bila prisutna u našem domu. Ja sam na početku izabrao gitaru da sviram rock sa prijateljima. Krenuo sam u Nižu muzičku školu u Foči, zavolio gitaru i muziku svim srcem. Pored klasične svirao sam i bass gitaru u KUD "Braća Ribar" što mi je jako pomoglo u razumjevanju harmonije, različitih ritamskih paterna, specifično iz Makedonije, jer smo svirali muziku iz cijele ex-Jugoslavije. Stekao sam bogato iskustvo svirajući koncerte svake sedmice. Onda je došao rat koji sam s familijom proveo u herojskom Goraždu. Imao sam puno prijatelja i bio vezan za muzičku produkciju. Snimili smo preko 200 pjesama. Uz sve strahote rata muzika je uvijek bila prisutna i počeo sam komponovati. Uradio sam muziku za pozorišnu predstavu, preko 20 pjesama i nekoliko solo klasičnih kompozicija. Kad govorim ko sam moram pomenuti moju dragu profesoricu Milu Rakanović koja je zaslužna za nastavak mog školovanja i jako važna osoba u mom životu. Ranih devedesetih u Sarajevu je bila samo Srednja muzička škola sa odsjekom za klasičnu gitaru, bez gitarističkog odsjeka na Muzičkoj akademiji. Tu sam studirao kod profesorice Mile koja je vodila i Ansambl Gitara u kojem sam svirao sa pedesetak gitarista i prijatelja što je neprocjenjivo za muzičara. Nauči se svirati kamerna muzika i shvati značaj timskog rada. Ova iskustva su mi omogućila da budem bolji muzičar - gitarista i da razumijem značaj organizacije i profesionalizma što je jako važno ovdje u Americi.

Od Foče preko rata i Sarajeva do Amerike, nije cigar puta. Po svetim knjigama: čudni su putevi gospodnji. Nakon što je hodoljubio njima, Zuko mi je pričao da su asfaltirani. Iskusio sam da su putevi izbjeglički rđavi, opasni, neizvjesni. Putevi Almerovi su ljepši. Notni.
- Imao sam sreću da sa 14 godina snimam u Velikom studiju BH televizije ili sviram koncert u centru Žorž Pompidu (Georges Pompidou) u Parizu. Gdje sam otišao '97. da studiram na Ecole Normale de Musique u klasi profesora Rafael Andia. Francuska Ambasada iz Sarajeva obezbjedila mi je francusku državnu stipendiju. Možete zamisliti moju sreću i radost kad sam krenuo u Pariz. Naučio sam jezik, stekao puno prijatelja i svirao koncerte širom Evrope. I ono najljepše: upoznao Džesiku Pirs (Jessica Pierce), studentkinju flaute. Poslije toga dolazi magisterski studij na Royal College of Music u Kardifu kod profesora Džona Milsa (John Mills) a školarinu sam dobio od Akademije. Maestro Mils je bio izvanredan profesor i prijatelj. Po magisteriju odlazim u Los Anđelos na postdiplomske studije na Univerzitetu Južne Kalifornije (USC) kod profesora Skota Tenanta (Scott Tennant) i Maestro Pepe Romero. Los Anđelos je centar svijeta za filmsku i muzičku industriju tako da su najbolji muzičari u gradu fenomenalni. Počeo sam da sviram gitare i druge žičane instrumente za filmove i sarađujem sa velikim brojem muzičara. I ovdje sam spustio sidro i ostao da živim i stvaram. Rekoh vam da sam u Parizu upoznao Džesiku . To je bilo prije deset godina i evo još uvijek sviramo i uživamo u našoj muzičkoj avanturi. Tek prije pet godina smo počeli ozbiljno da sviramo kao duo AlmaNova i snimili 3 CD-a. Prelijepo je svirati sa Džesikom koja je izvanredan muzičar i iznad svega divan životni partner. Još draža mi je što je veliki zaljubljenik u Bosnu i sevdalinke. Kad navratite kod nas uvijek će vas dočekati Zaim ili Himzo. Ta ljubav prema sevdalinci se može čuti na našem prvom CD-u "Debut" gdje sviramo nekoliko u našim obradama.

Debitantski CD životnog i muzičkog dua AlmaNova (čitati kao AlmerJessica) ušao je u izbor za Instrumentalni Album 2009. godine u US. U konkurenciji 42 hiljade albuma iz 160 zemalja svijeta, proglašen najboljim. Čestitam Almeru, Džesika se podrazumijeva, a pitam kako doživljava nagrade.
- Ovdje su jako važna gitaristička takmičenja. Ja nisam imao vremena da putujem i radim takmičenja punom parom ali gdje sam otišao ostvario sam dobre rezultate. Osvojio sam, recimo, prvo mjesto na veoma uglednom takmičenju Fresno International u konkurenciji najboljih gitarista iz 20 zemalja. Moj profesor Tenant bio je u publici. Nakon izvedbe dođe i samo kratko kaže: "Hej, čovječe, ti stvarno možeš fantastično svirati gitaru" što mi je bilo draže i od same pobjede. Ja personalno nisam takmičarskog duha kad je riječ o gitari tako da takmičenja gledam kao specifične koncerte i onda mi je lakše da se koncentrišem i sviram bez pritiska. Ako već treba oko nagrada da pomenem naš album "Classic Giuliani". Ugledni American Record Guide nagradio nas je sa Critic’s Choice 2008. a moju kompozicija "Sarajevo Nights" JPF (Udruženje 51.500 kompozitora i muzičkih autoriteta) je u Nešvilu (Nashville - domaćin najpoznatijeg Festivala country muzike na svijetu) proglasio za najbolju Originalnu Instrumentalnu Kompoziciju 2009. godine. Što me, dabome, čini sretnim. Sad imam puno studenata koje spremam za takmičenja čiji me uspijeh raduje kao sopstveni. Sa studentima sam počeo raditi kao asistent na Royal College of Music i na USC, a trenutno radim na privatnom Konzervatoriju u Južnoj Pasadini gdje sam profesor gitare i Direktor gitarističkog odsjeka. Imam odlične studente. Prije 6 mjeseci bilo je međunarodno takmičenje ovdje, u Los Anđelosu. Od pet nagrada moji studenti su osvojili tri.

Interesujem se šta je najrađe: kompozitor, tumač svog i tuđeg djela, il' muzički pedagog? (Članstvo u AlmaNova ne pominjem, smatram ga van konkurencije a preporučujem poznanstvo na internet adresi: The AlmaNova Duo - http://www.almanova.us/ - što je prečica do umjetnosti i zavičaja).
- Humanista i kompozitor! Ima dobra rečenica u filmu Burn After Reading gdje glumac kaže: "Ja sam samo putnik na putu". A ja dodajem: "I uživam u tom procesu". Prije svega, ja sebe vidim kao muzičara i radim sve što me čini sretnim. Ja nikad nisam umoran od muzike i gitare i ako mogu pomoći mojim studentima i pokazati nekoliko "trikova" onda sam još sretniji. Uzgred, moram vam reći da se rado sjetim Montenove i vaše pjesme "Gitaro moja" jer se mogu poistovjetiti sa njenim štimungom.

Iščitah kritike US muzičkih kritičara. Postoje dva mišljenja: jedni smatraju da je Maestro Almer Imamović rijedak, vrhunski talenat. Virtouz. Drugi se slažu s prvim. A i jedni i drugi u njegovim kompozicijama prepoznaju "zvuk rodne Bosne". Pitam: koliko je ostao vezan za zavičajne muzičke korijene i zavičaj kao geografski pojam?
- Trudim da bar jednom godišnje odem kući mada je ponekad to teško zbog obaveza, ali to ne utiče na prisustvo Bosne u mojoj muzici. Bosna je uvijek uz mene. Ja sam prije svega klasični gitarista, ali sam svirao i družio se sa izvarednim bh "narodnim" muzičarima. I što se kod nas kaže "naučio fazone". Naši muzičari sviraju sa dušom što je teško naći na Zapadu. Ovdje imaš probu ili koncert i svi sviraju notalno. Kad imaš note ispred sebe onda nema komunikacije između muzičara i čitav band je bez konekcije. Svaki naš bh muzičar memoriše 500-600 pjesama što je ogromno znanje. Za tako nešto ovdje ljudi dobijaju fakultetske diplome. To iskustvo mi je pomoglo da razvijem vezu sa našom muzikom i ubacim te "fazone" u moje kompozicije i svirku. To će uvijek biti uz mene i dio mene kao muzičara. Pored naše bosanske, jako volim i makedonske narodne pjesme što se može čuti na našem novom albumu "After Hours". Sad završavamo snimanje novog i pakujem se za Sarajevo. Jer moja karta je povratna, samo trebam potvrditi rezervaciju. Ovaj put imam koncert u Sarajevu i nekolika u Zenici i Tuzli. I susrete sa svojim najdražim. Sva moja bliža familja je u Bosni. Ali imam rodbine u Irskoj, Švedskoj, Americi. Ako imate prostora, molim vas da im prenesete puno pozdrava kao i čitaocima Barikade - svim zemljacima širom svijeta.

Tri posljednja oktobarska dana (2009.) Sarajevo je bilo domaćin naučno - umjetničkog skupa Dani BHAAAS (Bosanskohercegovačko Američka Akademija Nauka i Umjetnosti) pod nazivom "We are strionger together" - Zajedno smo jači. Trodnevna razmijena naučne i umjetničke misli svečano je završena gala koncertom Sarajevske filharmonije u Narodnom pozorištu. Solista na koncertu bio je član BHAAAS, elitni US klasični gitarista i opunomoćeni ambasador bh sevdaha u svijetu, Njegova Ekselencija Maestro Almer Imamović.

Opet čujem Zaima. Onu lijepo sjetnu, i usvjetnu: "Kada dođem rodnom kraju..."

From Barikada.com -World of Music

National Flute Convention 2010

2010-08-19T14:49:00.000-07:00

We played a great concert last Saturday for the National Flute Convention's annual festivities! This year the convention was held in Anaheim so we didn't have too far to go! We saw many of our dear friends and fans and really had the best time playing with our percussionist extraordinaire, Matt Hillegass! Fresh from his trip to Africa, he enhanced our performance and really added something special. He was a huge hit and our concert was a big success! Special thanks to all who attended! We especially enjoyed meeting Mr. Abell from the Abell Flute Company, specializing in wooden flutes. I still have that sound of his special instruments in my ear....I am putting myself on his waiting list and am hoping to get one in a couple years! Flute World also held a CD signing at their booth. Almer's compositions were quite a hit with all the attendees!

Can't wait for the 2011 convention in North Carolina!

Zana Mesihovic and the Balkan Soul Orchestra

2010-07-27T20:18:00.001-07:00

We had a great time last weekend performing with the wonderful singer/songwriter Zana Mesihovic and the talented James Brandon Lewis on sax. The concert was celebrating 50 years of music making at Capitol Records and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It was a great honor to perform at this historic and iconic building. Zana's music was infectious and the crowd outside loved her! We performed her hit, "If You're Wondering" that was in the film "The Lightkeepers" with Richard Dreyfuss. We can't wait until the next concert with this great ensemble. Keep an eye out announcing Zana's new CD that will feature AlmaNova!

Jose Oribe

2010-07-20T15:56:00.000-07:00

As a classical guitarist, one of the greatest pleasures is to meet various luthiers and tour their workspace where they make their wonderful guitar masterpieces! I recently had the great fortune to meet with Mr. Jose Oribe. One of my students was in search of a guitar with a long scale and Oribe is one of the few luthiers who make this their practice. He lives and works just an hour north of San Diego with his wonderful wife, Juanita. His guitars and simply fantastic! His craftsmanship is of the highest level and it shines through upon hearing and playing his guitars. It was great to meet such a master in the Los Angeles area. My student is extremely pleased with his Oribe guitar and I hope to have one as well in the near future!

AlmaNova on YouTube! (with 2 versions of Ikindija)

2010-07-04T10:50:00.000-07:00

Two Concerts this Saturday...

2010-06-15T19:29:00.000-07:00

BUT, we will not be playing them together! Bummer!!!

For those of you in the Pasadena Area, please come see Almer play with the FABULOUS Zana Mesihovic and the Balkan Soul Orchestra. Almer is her special guest and they are performing in the annual Pasadena MakeMusic Festival.

Details:

Saturday, June 19th
6:30pm
Emerging Artist Stage
Make Music Pasadena

For those of you on the Westside, you can come to hear Jessica perform at the Live at the Lounge concert series in Hermosa Beach. She is happy to be a part of the West Coast premier of Stig Jonas Petterssen's opera, A Dream Play (Dromspel).

Details:

Saturday, June 19th
7:00pm Dinner (optional)
8:00pm Concert
Live at the Lounge
Hermosa Beach, CA

See you there!

Two New Reviews from U.K.'s Classical Guitar Magazine and Australia's Flute Focus!

2010-06-06T21:04:00.000-07:00

Please read this great review of After Hours from Australia's premier flute magazine, Flute Focus written by Cathy Wainwright on May 21, 2010.

Alma Nova – After Hours

Jessica Pierce – Flute

Almer Imamovic – Guitar

http://www.almanovaduo.com

If you want to be inspired and uplifted then this is the album for you! The infectious rhythms and haunting melodies of folk tunes from Macedonia and Imamovic’s native Bosnia reflect the gamut of human emotion from sadness and pain to hope and belief in the future.

Flute and guitar duo Alma Nova present in this their third album, their own compositions and arrangements linking traditional folk themes of love, loss, sadness and the search for peace, tranquillity, and hope, with events in their own lives, giving the album a very personal focus and expression. The energy, passion and sincerity of the artists shine through in every track.

Every track has a freshness and a personal investment in the music which is sometimes missing in recordings of mainstream repertoire. The title After Hours expresses the idea that this is the music the artists choose to play when they have finished rehearsing or playing their ‘classical repertoire’ – truly music from the heart.

Flautist Jessica Pierce, a graduate of the famed Eçole Normale de Music de Paris, plays with effortlessly flowing melodic lines that range from sensuous to plaintive and wistful. Guitarist Almer Imamovic is likewise a master of his instrument, and together the pair form a perfectly balanced duo. Overdubbing of additional parts on some tracks adds to the depth and interest without compromising the balance.

But don’t take my word for it. Have a look at their attractively presented website where you can not only hear sound clips, but also follow links to YouTube videos of their performances. Their YouTube video of Massimo Dancing, with guest artist Jim Walker (Jessica’s current Doctorate supervisor) is fantastic! And if you are anywhere near the NFA Convention in Anaheim CA in August be sure to catch them performing there on the 14th.

This CD will certainly be an addition to my iPod!

Able Seaman Musician Cathy Wainwright is a Flautist with the Sydney Detachment of the Royal Australian Navy Band, and was one of the first group of women to serve in the Royal Australian Air Force Band. Cathy holds a MMus from the University of New South Wales, a Fellowship Diploma in Flute Performance from Trinity College, London, and has extensive flute teaching experience both privately and in schools.

Review from Classical Guitar Magazine, the U.K.'s premier guitar magazine.

AlmaNova: Debut

This duo met while studying at the Ecole Normale de Musique de Paris and have toured North America, Mexico, France, Eastern Europe and the U.K.

This disc encompasses Imamovic's original compositions and arrangements of love songs from his native, Bosnia. Many of the tunes are instantly hummable, they have a musical simplicity which is charming and whether originals or arrangements, Imamovic has done an exceptional job throughout. Mixed in with the sentimental sounding tracks are several up-tempo ones which really get the feet tapping (especially notable being the final track where both players are, one assumes, double tracking) and a couple of well-played guitar solos, too. There is not really one low point in the whole program, all the pieces are of a most attractive nature and are well performed by this ably equipped duo.

The recording quality is of a high standard, the presentation lets the side down a little though with just a one-sheet insert containing little information about the duo of the music, for that, you have to visit their website.

-Steve Marsh, Classical Guitar Magazine, UK

Photos from the concert with Annette Bening, Rade Serbedzija and Miroslav Tadic

2010-05-27T11:26:00.000-07:00

Almer Imamovic plays Kenny Hill Signature double-top guitar

2010-05-16T13:11:00.001-07:00

Bach's Lunch Recital

2010-05-06T08:17:00.000-07:00

AlmaNova MAY 2010 PERFORMANCES

2010-04-29T18:58:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Hope to see you at one of our upcoming performances!

Sunday, May 2, 2010
Benefit Concert and Silent Auction in support of Breast Cancer
5-9pm
TIX: $25 includes wine and refreshments
*ALL PROCEEDS go directly to a dear friend who is currently battling breast cancer
South Pasadena Music Center and Conservatory
1509 Mission
South Pasadena, CA

Wednesday, May 5, 2010
12noon
Jessica Pierce, flute and Angela Cholakyan, piano
program includes Bach, Enesco, Khachatourian, and Mendelssohn-Rachmaninoff
Pasadena Presbyterian Church
585 E. Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA

Friday, May 7, 2010
12:15pm
Bach's Lunch @ Trinity Lutheran Church
1340 Eleventh St.
Manhattan Beach, CA

Saturday, May 8, 2010
7pm
AlmaNova plays with Matt Hilly (percussion)
Jessica plays Piazzolla's 'Four Seasons' with piano and cello
Live at the Lounge
1014 Hermosa Ave.
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Saturday, May 22, 2010
8:00pm
"The Sound of the Balkans" hosted by Annette Bening
feat. AlmaNova, Rade Serbedzija, Miroslav Tadic, and Zana Mesihovic
$50/each ALL PROCEEDS benefit the orphaned children in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Barnsdall Gallery Theatre
4800 Hollywood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90027
TIX CALL: (310) 733-6858

Music for a Cause: Support Breast Cancer

2010-04-29T18:57:00.001-07:00

AlmaNova plays Benefit for Bosnian Orphans hosted By Annette Bening

2010-04-23T21:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends:

On behalf of the Democracy Council and Bosana Foundation, it is our pleasure to invite you to attend “Sound of the Balkans, Music that transcends boundaries and divisions” to be held on 22 May, 2010 at Barnsdall Gallery Theatre in Los Angeles.

All proceeds collected from the event, including the sale of tickets will go towards a scholarship fund for a number of exceptional young adults living at the orphanages all over Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) that would like to pursue university education. The program will cover university costs, a small stipend and, if necessary, the housing costs. Our goal is to give these young adults the skills and opportunity to become self-reliant and productive citizens of their country. We are expecting approximately thirty (30) people to participate in the pre-event cocktail party and over three hundred (300) to attend the concert.

The featured musicians include Rade Serbedzija and Miroslav Tadic, AlmaNova and special guest appearances. The event will be a rich cultural evening, filled with music from various parts of the Balkan region. We will have three distinguished performances each with a slight variation and adaptations of added worldly cultures and sounds. In addition, American actress Annette Bening will give a special performance at the main event.

The Democracy Council is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization based in Los Angeles that will provide tax-deductible letters for any generous donations. Bosana Foundation is an organization that has worked two years with a number of orphanages in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

You can purchase the tickets by going online to www.bgttix.com/

If you cannot attend the event but you would still like to contribute to the cause, please visit www.bosanafoundation.org

Visit from a Kiwi!

2010-04-19T11:45:00.000-07:00

Had a great time last week with one of the premier guitarists from New Zealand, Owen Moriarty. He was my duo partner during our time together at USC. He's an exceptional guitarist and a great friend! Enjoy this photo of Owen and I with Maestro Scott Tenannt.

Upcoming concerts in Northern California!

2010-04-05T17:22:00.000-07:00

Santa Clara University-Music at Noon
Santa Clara, CA
April 7
12:00pm

Carmel Classical Guitar Society-Masterclass
Moneterey, CA
April 7
6:00pm

Theater at the Stanton Center
Monterey, CA
April 9
7:30pm

Le Petit Trianon
San Jose, CA
April 10
8:00pm

South Bay Guitar Society-Masterclass
San Jose, CA
April 11
11:00am

Concert in Monterey-tickets on sale now!

2010-03-27T22:53:00.000-07:00

The music of Henry Mancini

2010-03-17T20:12:00.000-07:00

I am very happy to present three new digital downloads now available through iTunes. I recorded these with guitarist and friend, Gregg Nestor for BSX Records. Gregg is also the arranger of these great and fun tunes.

Here are the links:

1."Who's Killing the Great Chefs of Europe?" (Mancini)

2. "The Sweetheart Tree" (Mancini)

3. "The Pennywhistle Jig" (Mancini)

Music Lessons with AlmaNova

2010-03-07T21:48:00.000-08:00

AlmaNova, flutist Jessica Pierce and guitarist Almer Imamovic, is currently offering private music instruction and group music classes in flute and guitar. For the past 15 years, Dr. Pierce and Mr. Imamovic have provided a nuturing environment and the inspiration necessary to help students reach their musical goals.

Our studio is located in Pasadena, CA near Pasadena City College. Please contact us if you would like to set up a free 20 minute trial lesson.

email: almanovaduo@gmail.com

or call: 626-434-5585

All ages and levels welcomed!

For more information please click here!

New mp3's Now Available for Download!!!

2010-02-14T19:23:00.000-08:00

Jessica recently had the privilege to record for BSX Records two themes for flute and guitar arranged by good friend and exceptional guitarist, Gregg Nestor. They are both available on Amazon and iTunes for immediate download!

Theme from the Motion Picture Cross Creek music by L. Rosenman (click here)

The Inner Light from Star Trek: The Next Generation music by J. Chattaway (click here)

Link on iTunes!

Photos and reviews from ASTO Concert

2010-02-03T17:51:00.000-08:00

Please enjoy these photos from our recent concert at the ASTO museum in Los Angeles. Thanks to everyone who came...it was a fun night especially with our guest artists, Matt Hilly on cajon!

We were grateful to the Pasadena Classical Music Meet-up Group who also attended. Read what they had to say about our performance:

"Terrific married duo of flute and guitar--energetic, heartfelt, refined playing. And the repertoire was eclectic but focused on stylized dance, from Piazzolla to Ravel to Bosnian and Macedonian music." - A.D.

"Guitarist Almer Imamovic's and his flutist wife Jessica Pierce's marvelous mastery of their instruments was beautifully demonstrated in pieces they played by Astor Piazzolla, Maurice Ravel and Jacques Ibert. In the second half, they---along with percussionist Matt Hilly---dazzled the audience with pieces (love songs and dances) from Bosnia and Macedonia, beautifully arranged or composed by Almer. The audience was captivated. It was a concert well-worth attending. To sample some of the award-winning duo's eclectic music visit www.almanovaduo.com" -M.E.

AlmaNova performs at ASTO Museum of Art in Los Angeles on January 30th at 7:30pm

2010-01-17T19:02:00.000-08:00

FREE music-just press play!

2010-01-13T22:53:00.000-08:00

After Hours by AlmaNova

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-12-29T22:05:00.000-08:00

Spotlight on Kenny Hill Guitars

2009-12-14T22:30:00.000-08:00

In the past few months I have received many emails inquiring about my guitar. Therefore, I thought I would take the time to introduce you to one of the best American luthiers, Mr. Kenny Hill. I have been playing my stand-up model Kenny Hill for the past two years and have fallen in love with it. It suits me very well because of its beautiful and well-balanced sound. It is very easy to play, has a comfortable neck, and since it is a double-top, it responses quickly making live performance very enjoyable. I like this stand-up model because I had back surgery a few years ago. This makes practicing much easier and relieves tension in my back. It is also aesthetically better for our duo, putting both Jessica and I on the same level.

For more info about Kenny and his fantastic instruments click here. He also has a great blog with a lot of valuable information about guitar-related subjects.

Enjoy the photos of Kenny and I and my guitar!

Standing Ovation in Bosnian National Theater!

2009-11-12T15:31:00.000-08:00

Enjoy these photos from our latest tour of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We played concerts in Zenica, Tuzla and finished our tour with a great concert in the National Theatre in Sarajevo. Almer was a guest of the Bosnian-Herzegovinian American Academy of Arts and Sciences and performed Rodrigo's Concierto de Aranjuez for a national live television broadcast. For an encore, AlmaNova performed 'Jamilla's Dance' and brought the entire audience of 800 to their feet. Special thanks to Eldin and the BHAAAS, the Sarajevo Philharmonic and the city and people of Sarajevo, Zenica and Tuzla for a great reception and wonderful memories that will stay with us always.

AlmaNova with the Queen of Sevdah music Maestra Hanka Paldum in Sarajevo!

2009-11-04T13:35:00.000-08:00

We had the pleasure and honor to meet the reigning Queen of Sevdalinka (Bosnian folk music) Maestra Hanka Paldum in Sarajevo after our concert with Sarajevo Philhamonic. It was quite a surprise to have her in the audience. We were thrilled to know she loved our concert and performance of 'Jamilla's Dance'. In this piece, Almer quotes one of the most beloved sevdalinka called 'Emina'.

More news to follow about our great musical adventures in Bosnia representing the Bosnian-Herzegovinian American Academy of Arts and Sciences (BHAAAS).

Almer performs Rodrigo's "Concierto de Aranjuez" with Sarajevo Philharmonic conducted by Philip Simmons

2009-10-17T08:56:00.000-07:00

Summer Memories....

2009-10-11T11:51:00.001-07:00

Well, today is the day that finally feels like the summer has come to an end in L.A.. We woke up this morning to a beautifully damp morning....no heat to be found. Although we welcome this change in the weather, we thought today would be the appropriate day to share a photo from one of our favorite summer moments.....HAWAII!

Almer plays for John Frizzell's new score!!!!!!

2009-09-30T22:24:00.000-07:00

We are happy to announce that this movie "From Mexico with Love" is finally going to be released October 2009!!!! The score was written by famed film composer, John Frizzell. Listen to the preview below where Almer is featured playing (and improvising!!!) the following:

Classical guitar

Flamenco guitar

Electric guitar

Charango

Mandolin...etc!!!

ENJOY!!!!

The Return of the AlmaNova World Music Collective!!!!

2009-09-30T17:58:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

Just wanted to let you know about some performances happening this coming Saturday, October 3rd in South Pasadena. We are participating in the SoPas Arts Fest. Here are the details:

6pm-7pm @ the SPMCC: Jessica Pierce, flute and Angela Cholakyan, piano

We will present a program of classical repertoire for the time-honored ensemble including Bach, Taktakkishvilli, and Enesco

7:30-8:30pm @ the Mission Gold Line Station: AlmaNova World Music Collective

Almer and Jessica will be joined by Zach Hahn, bass and Dan Schnelle, drums to rock the house for an encore performance of this favorite band of So Pas!!!!

8:30-9:30pm @the Mission Gold Line Station: Maestro Alex Gregory

Almer will join the Maestro of rock guitar for some electric shredding!

For more exact info click here

American Composers Forum of Los Angeles Presents: AlmaNova

2009-09-19T11:25:00.000-07:00

Two Wins for AlmaNova in Nashville!!!!!

2009-09-01T21:36:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, we found out that we were nominated in two categories by the organization Just Plain Folks, the world's largest independent music awards organization. We are pleased to announce that we WON both categories:

*AWARD WINNER*

JPF Music Awards:
AlmaNova "Debut" -Best Instrumental Album 2009
Almer Imamovic "Sarajevo Nights" -Best Instrumental Song 2009

The results were announced this past weekend in Nashville. We were not able to attend, but are so thrilled! This completely took us by surprise. We still don't know who nominated us originally. 'Debut' was our first CD and it has a very special place in our hearts. We recorded the CD in 2006 and are touched to learn that it still is receiving such positive attention. These great honors have encouraged us to continue expanding our repertoire and has profoundly impacted Almer's wish to continue composing!!!

A very heartfelt thanks to all who have supported our music!

Click here for complete list of winners.

Two New Reviews!

2009-08-29T17:45:00.000-07:00

Our CD, 'Debut' was recorded in 2006 and yet we are very pleased that we still receive some very nice reviews. Our latest release, 'After Hours' has just begun to be reviewed and we thought we'd share these two latest ones we came across! Thanks to all for supporting this CD and our music in general!!

FLUTE FOCUS MAGAZINE:

JAN

2009

AlmaNova - "Debut"

Written by Jim Langabeer

Pure musical pleasure is the result of this masterful combination of Jessica Pierce's flute and Almer Imamovic's guitar. Both performers are passionate players and give breath-taking performances in their original combinations of classical and romantic music and Bosnian love songs and lively dances.

The duo started while they were both students at the famed Ecole Normale de Musique in Paris, and has flowered in the course of major world tours and highly praised concerts. In style, they take time to state and develop the many melodies and rhythmic energies with impeccable techniques, and yet retain a relaxed, restrained purity of sound.

On this recording the pair make judicious use of added hand percussion from Jim Coffin, and a little instrumental overdubbing, but maintain an acoustic sensibility throughout. For variety, inspiration, and listener enjoyment this collection of ten arrangements sets high standards for a flute and guitar ensemble program. Unreservedly recommended.

MINOR 7TH

AlmaNova "After Hours," 2009 Flautist Jessica Pierce and guitarist Almer Imamovic perform as AlmaNova. This CD features music influenced by Macedonian folk traditions, including several original pieces. The liner notes convey the significance of each piece, e.g., one written for a child, another for a friend’s wedding. The disc opens with Imamovic’s composition, "Bosna Nova," an uptempo piece combining Eastern melodies connected by bluegrass-flavored guitar runs. "Bitola" follows, its simple presentation resulting in a moving performance. Imamovic overdubs multiple parts on the title track, with one low-voiced guitar imitating the Balkan saz. On the traditional Macedonian song, "Zajdi, Zajdi", the musicians take time to develop a plaintive yet alternately wistful mood. On each selection, Jessica Pierce’s flute trades melodic statements with the guitar, each perfectly complementing the other. This CD is very much a personal project for AlmaNova, and it’s one that pays off for the listener. © Patrick Ragains

Radio...someone still loves you!

2009-08-23T11:01:00.000-07:00

Almer loves radio!

Yesterday he was the happiest person in the world when he came across the new radio station in LA. This new station plays the music he loves (mostly rock from the 70's) and has minimal ads.

It reminds him of his favorite stations in France and the U.K. (FIP Radio in Paris and BBC3)

Now he is a very happy camper! The new station is called 100.3 THE SOUND (click here to check it out live on web!)

Happy listening!

p.s. by the way, pictured is his old Marantz tuner and special antenna, pre-amp, speakers for high fidelity listening, etc.... as his audiophile friends would say "the sound is great and not at all fatiguing"....hahaha!

The best Indian food in town!

2009-08-11T23:12:00.000-07:00

Jessica and I are not native Pasadenians...but it is places like the New Delhi Palace that make us feel at home. This is the best Indian food on the planet and it is run by the most friendly and kind people. Every time we come to this great place we are greeted like family and we just wanted to share this with you all. If you're ever in Pasadena and not joining us at our house for Jessica's culinary adventures in Bosnian cuisine (more to come about this later....), then be sure to treat yourself to New Delhi Palace.

We recommend the Chicken Tikka Masala and and Channa Masala with garlic naan and rice. For the beer drinkers, Almer takes the KingFisher LARGE!!!

Here's the link to their website and directions: http://www.newdelhipasadena.com/

Enjoy!

Guitar on BBC!

2009-08-11T22:55:00.000-07:00

Great stories about guitar legends featuring videos of them sharing their guitar licks, techniques and secrets to their unique sound. Check this link!

FREE music-just press play!

2009-08-02T15:21:00.000-07:00

Classic Giuliani by AlmaNova

New videos on YouTube!

2009-07-27T11:51:00.000-07:00

CSU Summer Arts: AlmaNova's Amazing Review!

2009-07-19T12:24:00.000-07:00

For some reason we seem to travel to the city of Fresno, CA about once a year! This particular trip was especially nice....although it was about 105 degrees!!! We were invited as guest artists and master teachers along with other flute legends like Jim Walker and William Bennett. We were so happy to hear the extremely high levels of the students who participated in the master classes and were honored to teach them!

The highlight for us was the great concert we played...and the review the next day by Donald Munro from the Fresno Bee Newspaper!

Please read:

Flute, guitar a beautiful Pair at Fresno State by Donald Munro

Thanks to Summer Arts, I now am in love with the sound of flute and guitar together.

All it took was one concert earlier this week by the AlmaNova duo, whose two players, Almer Imamovic and Jessica Pierce, are instructors in the flute and guitar workshop at the California State University Summer Arts program at Fresno State.

So, what was it about Imamovic and Pierce's performance that opened my ears to this wonderful combination of instruments?

On fresnobeehive.com, I wrote that as I listened to them play I kept thinking of two swallows hurling through the sky -- diving, soaring, swooping, with first one and then the other taking the lead, the two of them sometimes exploding with energy but more often quietly flitting here and there in a graceful, intuitively choreographed display of seamless connection.

The pair is married in real life, and they have a stage relationship that is touching to watch. Imamovic strums his guitar so smoothly at times it's as if he's caressing a stone, and Pierce's flute lyrically fills the hall with a gentle, effortless swell. Watching Imamovic watch his wife as they play is particularly sweet. He stands when he plays, and he periodically turns to gaze at her, his shoulders pulsing with the beat almost as if the two are dancing.

There's a strong Eastern European influence in AlmaNova's songs, which is not surprising considering Imamovic's Bosnian roots. (He writes much of the group's material.) Slightly exotic yet with a velvety finish, the duo's sound never delves into meditative Windham Hill territory, but it also projects a mellow, accomplished mood. Many of the songs have direct ethnic connections: "Sarajevo Nights" seems to twinkle with the vitality of a city, and "Moj Golube," an arrangement of a Macedonian folk song, captures the age-old story of love and loss.

I was entranced, and I'm going to track their CDs down for a further listen. I know I'm looking forward to hearing their colleagues play, as well.

AlmaNova NOMINATED!!!!

2009-07-02T20:44:00.000-07:00

We are very excited and honored to learn that we've been nominated to receive an award from Just Plain Folks...the world's largest Independent Music Awards Organization! We were chosen from over 42,000 albums from 160 countries!

We have been nominated in two categories:

2009 Best Instrumental Album for 'Debut' by AlmaNova

AND

2009 Best Instrumental Song for Sarajevo Nights by Almer Imamovic

TO VOTE PLEASE CLICK HERE!

Special thanks to whom ever nominated us!

FREE music-just press play!

2009-06-11T21:23:00.000-07:00

Debut by AlmaNova

Dr. Jessica Pierce!

2009-06-07T21:31:00.000-07:00

At last Jessica finished her Doctorate of Musical Arts from USC! Now she just needs the job to go along with the degree.....

'After Hours' on iTunes

2009-05-28T07:32:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends...

Many of you have inquired about when our latest CD will be available on iTunes.....well, wait no longer!

Click here....it will take you to our website. Once you're there, click on the iTunes button just below the 'After Hours' album cover and it will take you directly to iTunes.

We've had some really great response to this release so far and would like to thank everyone for their support and kind words!

Cheers!

Jessica and Almer

NEW CD: "After Hours"

2009-05-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

We are happy to announce that our new CD, "After Hours" has been released! This latest project pays tribute to some of the most beautiful and haunting melodies from Macedonia. We also have included some exciting new original works that reflect this part of the world. Hope you enjoy!

If you'd like to purchase your copy of "After Hours", please click here.

Click on each of the tracks below for sample sound bytes:

Almer students performed at Loyola Marymont University Guitar Festival!

2009-04-05T20:41:00.001-07:00

Almer was very proud of three of his 'star' students...Eric, Sierra and Sofiane were all chosen by audition to perform in the LMU Young Artist's Showcase during their big guitar festival week. They all were professional and played beautifully. There is nothing better for a teacher than to see their students succeed! Bravo to you all and now we will look to the next big challenge together!

Almer Imamovic and Scott Tennant in Santa Barbara

2009-04-02T21:13:00.000-07:00

We had a great time with Maestro Scott Tennant in Santa Barbara during the Santa Barbara Symphony 2nd International Guitar Festival. Off course we meet at Peet's coffee for a little break. Aside from playing a great concert as part of the festival, we were so happy to hear a new concerto for the LAGQ by Sergio Assad called Interchange. It was a very exciting piece and well played by the quartet and the orchestra. The LAGQ is always an amazing group to hear. Bravo, guys!

AlmaNova World Music Collective Feat. Jim Walker!

2009-03-22T21:54:00.000-07:00

Hi All!

For those of you who missed our recent performance, here is a taste of what went on! We played with a fabulous group of musicians and had a very warm and generous audience. The highlight of the night was when my flute professor from USC, Maestro Jim Walker, joined us on stage to help us premier one of our new tunes "Massimo Dancing". Please enjoy this clip of a true master flutist and unparalleled musician...we feel so honored to have had this experience!

Thank you, Jim!!!!

ps...to see more of this great evening of music click here

Tapkalica

2009-03-20T18:59:00.000-07:00

Review of the "Debut" by Carla Rees

2009-03-05T13:31:00.000-08:00

AlmaNova is a flute and guitar duo comprising Jessica Pierce and Almer Imamovic. It was formed during their studies at the Ecole Normale de Musique in Paris. The folk-influences music on this disc includes Imamovic's arrangements of the traditional Bosnian works and his own compositions. It is not clear from the sleeve-notes which are which, as there is no individual information about each track other than the listing on the back.

Sarajevo Nights is an upbeat track, with percussive definition and a florid flute melody. This track gives the disc a strong opening, well-written for the instruments and allows both players to shine. The playing from both of those performers is idiomatic and immediately demands attention. Moj Golube is a moderately paced ballad with a lyrical melody given well-chosen ornamentation. The opening of Uzeh Djugum i Mastrafu is haunting beautiful, with rich, dark flute tones heard over tremolo guitar. The mood lightens, and a poised dance follows. Theme for Carolyn moves through several changes of mood, with a simple melody line varied through the use of different accompaniment style on the guitar. Scott's Guitar is a beautifully performed solo for guitar, while Tapkalica is another fast, rhythmic track, with repeated melodic patterns building the momentum to a frenzy. La Nuit avec P.K. is another languid guitar solo which develops into a toccata-like dance with a punchy groove. The exotic Jamilla's Dance has a Dance of the Seven Veils quality to it, with Pierce's seductive pitch bends demanding attention. Dinner with J.D. features multi-tracked flutes in a piece which has a more western-pop style - parts of this track reminded me of Kenny G - than the rest of the disc. The Bosnian roots return for the final track, Song for Marcus, in a fast paced dance, which also features some multi-tracking.

This is an enjoyable disc which adds an interesting dimension to flute and guitar repertoire. Those players are clearly passionate about their choices of repertoire, and Pierce makes excellent use of ornamentation in her playing to give a sense of drama to otherwise simple melodic lines. Both players have excellent technical control and they have a wonderful report as a duo.

-Carla Rees, MusicWeb-International.com

Te Amo

2009-02-20T15:07:00.000-08:00

It was nice to see some good friends in our recent visit to Chicago! We were invited back to two encore performances with the Chamber Opera Chicago's Te Amo from last year. As it was last year, both shows were sold out! We can't wait to come back and play with this innovative and original opera company! See you there next year!

CRITIC'S CHOICE, 2008!

2009-01-26T11:26:00.000-08:00

AlmaNova "Classic Giuliani"

CRITIC'S CHOICE, 2008

American Record Guide

More exciting news has come from the American Record Guide!!! In November we received a very good review in their Nov./Dec. '08 edition and now have learned we were chosen as Critic's Choice, 2008! We look forward to more successes in 2009!

After the Holidays!

2009-01-16T16:57:00.000-08:00

We are so happy to announce that we will be recording our third album this month! Over our winter break from concertizing and teaching, we were able to work on this exciting project. This new release will be along the same lines as our first CD, "Debut". We have returned back to Almer's Balkan roots, this time exploring the music of Macedonia. It is a mix of our arrangements of these beautiful traditional folk melodies as well as Almer's original works. Please check back...it should be ready to go by this spring!

AlmaNova

AlmaNova THIS FRIDAY AT USC!!!!

Concert this Saturday, Jan. 28th in LA!

"Jovano, Jovanke" live performance

AlmaNova performs this Sunday in Encinitas, CA!!!

Hill Guitar Co. Presents AlmaNova concert at the Darling House, Santa Cruz, CA

Thank you 2011....Welcome 2012!!!!

In the Land of Blood and Honey LA Premiere

Almer Imamovic interview with Bedrudin GUŠIĆ, SabaH Bosnian-American newspaper

Maestro gitare ALMER IMAMOVIĆ, jedan od članova dua AlmaNova:UVIJEK MI JE NAJDRAŽE KAD SVIRAMO KOD KUĆE – U BiH

A word about AlmaNova from Las Vegas

AlmaNova: The Christmas Album now on ITUNES/AMAZON/CDBABY!!!!!!

NEW CD RELEASE: The Sarajevo Sessions!!!!!!!!!!!!

AlmaNova in concert: Charlotte, NC-November 22 @ 7pm

Almer and Kenny Hill Guitars!

AlmaNova Performs Mozart's Flute Concerto in Gmj. and Rodrigo's Concierto de Aranjuez with Sarajevo Philharmonic!!!!

AlmaNova Store: BUY CDs and MP3

Concert this Saturday in San Pedro!

510 W. 7th St. San Pedro, 90731

Paris!

Almer&Nirvan: Clip from Concert!

ALMER & NIRVAN IN CONCERT: Friday, Aug. 19th

Tickets to Europe and more!

Almer and Nirvan in LMP Studios!

NEW SHEET MUSIC NOW AVAILABLE!!!!!!

Almer Imamovic playing Pujol's 'El Abejorro'

Please join us TOMORROW NIGHT!!!! Wednesday, June 15 at 8pm

Sound of the Balkans: Bosana Foundation's 2nd Annual Fundraising Concert and Silent Auction

A special thanks...

Student Spotlight!

Moj Golube (from the student days at USC)

Great Chamber Music Venue in SoCal!

The Guitar Hands promo from the NAMM Show 2011 (playing the new model Hill Stage guitar)

CONCERT: Sunday March 6, 2011 @ 3:00 PM

Upcoming perfomances in March 2011

Almer Imamovic interview by Vesna Andree Zaimovic

Almer at NAMM and the new Hill Stage Guitar!

Almer Imamovic with Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra

New Stage Guitar by Hill Guitar Co.!

AlmaNova CD's: Great Holiday Gifts!!!!

AlmaNova in Santa Monica: Dec. 12, 2010

AlmaNova plays in Santa Clara this Saturday!

Great Teachers, Almer interviewed by Sean McGowan

CALIFORNIAN: AlmaNova duo mixes business with pleasure

The Sound of the Balkans, Music that transcends boundaries and Divisions

AlmaNova with Matt, live at Coffee Gallery Backstage Altadena,CA

AlmaNova in Altadena: Wednesday, Oct. 27th

Duo Tapas from New Zealand performing Almer's "Jamilla's Dance" and "Sarajevo Nights"

Concerts in October: Bay Area and Southern California Performances!

Review of "After Hours" in SOUNDBOARD Magazine

AlmaNova in Tiburon, CA Oct. 14th @ 8pm!

Almer Imamovic "Putnik s gitarom" by Milenko Miso Maric

National Flute Convention 2010

Zana Mesihovic and the Balkan Soul Orchestra

Jose Oribe

AlmaNova on YouTube! (with 2 versions of Ikindija)

Two Concerts this Saturday...

Two New Reviews from U.K.'s Classical Guitar Magazine and Australia's Flute Focus!

Photos from the concert with Annette Bening, Rade Serbedzija and Miroslav Tadic

Almer Imamovic plays Kenny Hill Signature double-top guitar

Bach's Lunch Recital

AlmaNova MAY 2010 PERFORMANCES

Music for a Cause: Support Breast Cancer

AlmaNova plays Benefit for Bosnian Orphans hosted By Annette Bening

Visit from a Kiwi!

Upcoming concerts in Northern California!

Concert in Monterey-tickets on sale now!

The music of Henry Mancini

Music Lessons with AlmaNova

New mp3's Now Available for Download!!!

Photos and reviews from ASTO Concert

AlmaNova performs at ASTO Museum of Art in Los Angeles on January 30th at 7:30pm

FREE music-just press play!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Spotlight on Kenny Hill Guitars

Standing Ovation in Bosnian National Theater!

AlmaNova with the Queen of Sevdah music Maestra Hanka Paldum in Sarajevo!

Almer performs Rodrigo's "Concierto de Aranjuez" with Sarajevo Philharmonic conducted by Philip Simmons

Summer Memories....

Almer plays for John Frizzell's new score!!!!!!

510 W. 7th St.
San Pedro, 90731