In early 2000, guitarists Edward Grigassy and Rodrigo Gamboa first began their collaboration creating what would later become the Carnaval Guitar Duo.

Though each player is from different backgrounds, the Carnaval Guitar Duo decided to specialize in performing the refined music styles of Latin America: Tango in the traditional Argentine style, Brazilian Bossa Nova standards, Cuban Son and Guajira, Venezulean Joropo and Vals, Mexican Boleros, and the Bambuco, Cumbia and Pasillo folk styles of Colombia.

In their many public concerts and private engagements since Mr. Gamboa and Mr. Grigassy first met, the Carnaval Guitar Duo has had the opportunity to share their unique perspective on the great art and dance music of Latin America with literally hundreds of appreciative listeners.  The Duo performs regularly in a variety of venues from school assemblies and educational programs to banquets and parties.

Edward Grigassy, Guitar

Mr. Grigassy studied at the University of Texas (Austin), earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree (1996) in Classical Guitar with Adam Holzman.  Mr. Grigassy then received his Master’s Degree (1998) in Classical Guitar from the New England Conservatory in Boston, under the tutelage of world-renown guitar virtuoso Eliot Fisk.  While at the Conservatory he also studied under the leading English-speaking expert on Brazilian Bossa Nova, Gene Bertoncini.  He has performed numerous solo and chamber music concerts in Texas and across the United States.  Based in Houston he instructs students at the high school and college level.  Many of his students have won top prizes in regional and state competitions.  As of Spring 2004, Mr. Grigassy has recorded and produced two solo recording projects and two group projects including Latin Carnaval’s first CD, “Sueño de Barrilete.”

Rodrigo Gamboa, Guitar / Vocals / Percussion

Mr. Gamboa is a native of Cali, Colombia.  From a young age, he taught himself guitar and percussion in addition to his studies of the fine arts.  Before leaving Colombia, Mr. Gamboa ran a thriving art and graphic design studio and performed in a local chamber ensemble.  He specializes in authentic recreations of diverse Latin American styles, especially the folk styles of Colombia and neighboring South American countries.  He has also been praised for his uncanny vocal ability, with which can revive the spirit of great Latin American singers like Atahualpa Yupanqui, Carlos Gardel, Guillermo Portabales and Joao Gilberto.

Promenade Series Season Tickets ordered before August 24, 2009 are just $60 for individuals and $175 for families. The season ticket includes all ten (10) concerts. After August 24, the Individual price is $70 and the Family price is $200.

Single ticket prices are: $12 adult, $10 senior, $6 child/student. Group tickets are also available for $8 each for groups of 10 or more.