The CROSS ATLANTIC TRIO
Three continents, three award-winning guitarists, one common denominator: Vienna. The Cross Atlantic Trio is far more than a classical ensemble – it is a world in which the musical homelands of David Strbac, William Marcil-Bouchard, and Tizoc Romero converge. United by a shared vision, they push beyond the boundaries of traditional guitar playing, building a bridge between the deep heritage of classical music and the pulsating energy of the present day.
At the core of their work lies a clear mission: to present the depth and sophistication of the classical guitar, but through a fresh and innovative crossover program that resonates with modern audiences. Their performances are a tightrope walk between highest precision and expressive freedom. The unmistakable CAT sound is not only the result of technical mastery, but of a rare balance-where structural clarity meets three strong, individual artistic identities.
They have studied with the very best: all three graduated with distinction from the MDW (University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna), shaped by the teachings of the world renowned Álvaro Pierri. Additional mentorship from chamber music specialist Petra Stump-Linshalm further shaped their approach to ensemble playing, leading to what some have described as a telepathic trialogue on stage.
Since their European tour in 2023, the CAT has established itself as a vibrant presence on the European concert scene. In response to strong audience demand, the trio released their debut album Danza, Baiao e Samba (Orlando Records, 2024), which has since received critical acclaim and was featured on Ö1 (Austria’s leading radio station), Radio-Canada, Dayton Public Radio (U.S.A.) and Belgrade Radio (Serbia).
The trio regularly performs in Vienna and its surroundings, including multiple appearances at the music festivals Kultursommer Wien and Alsergrunder Kultursommer, and has collaborated with notable Austrian music organizations, such as the Jeunesse Musicales Austria, the Austrian Society for Music and the Kulturverein Take 5.
With their captivating blend of musical virtuosity hypnotic ensemble playing and fresh repertoire, the Cross Atlantic Trio continues to leave audiences spellbound and wanting more.
Press-text:
The Cross Atlantic Trio, consisting of award-winning guitarists David Strbac, William Marcil-Bouchard and Tizoc Romero, unites the diverse musical heritage of Europe and the Americas. Their performance, described by some as a telepathic trialogue, brims with precision and energy, and bridges the gap between the deep heritage of classical music and the pulsating energy of the present day.
With their upcoming album The World (2027), the CAT build on the success of their critically acclaimed debut album Danza, Baiao e Samba (2024, Orlando Records), praised as a "youthful and energetic performance", bound to “be a real crowd-pleaser at concerts”, and marking the trio as a future "household name.”1
1Jim McCutcheon, American Record Guide (Jan./Feb. 2025)
THE WORLD (2027)
What happens when musical worlds collide?
In The World, the Cross Atlantic Trio leads listeners on a thrilling journey across the globe, blending styles, rhythms, and sounds from multiple genres, origins, and traditions into a single, captivating experience. The program not only reflects the cultural backgrounds of the three musicians themselves, but also follows a common thread that weaves together a wide range of influences, challenging expectations and reimagining the possibilities of the classical guitar trio.
One moment unfolds into the passionate pulse of an Argentinian tango or the floating rhythm of the Brazilian samba; the next opens to colorful and groovy oriental soundscapes. Exciting original arrangements and compositions infused with jazz and improvisation continue along the richly layered musical landscapes of the Balkans, culminating in a comforting surprise of familiar film and video game melodies.
Three classical guitars create a sound world far larger than their number suggests. At times rhythmic and driving, at others calm and intimate; the trio’s strength lies in their dynamic interplay. The way the three members constantly shift between lead and accompaniment, between clear structure and spontaneous freedom is not only technically compelling, but also creates a vivid musical dialogue showcasing the mastery of their craft.
In concert, the experience is not just about the music. With short, playful introductions, personal insights, stories, descriptions and a natural rapport with the audience, even first-time listeners are drawn in, invited to explore the music and the stories behind it.
The World gracefully blurs boundaries between genres, cultures, and concert traditions, producing surprising moments that are as mesmerizing as they are exhilarating. A vibrant, yet widely appealing experience that is sure to delight newcomers and seasoned concertgoers alike.
Program
1. Astor Piazzolla - Libertango
2. Astor Piazzolla - Oblivion
3. Flory Jagoda - Ocho Kandelikas
4. Chick Corea - Spain
5. Enrique Granados - Oriental
6. Trad. Ladino - Kuando el Rey Nimrod
7. Dizzy Gillespie - A Night in Tunisia
8. Trad. Macedonia - Jovano Jovanke
9. Egberto Gismonti - Agua e Vinho
10. Cross Atlantic Trio - Passarinha
11. Koji Kondo - Super Mario Bros. (Encore)
Length: approx. 60 Minutes (Length can be adjusted on demand)
Instruments: 3 classical guitars
Technical requirements: minimal (with optional amplification)
