Welcome to the website of Australian guitarist Harold Gretton.

During my studies with Tim Kain in Canberra and the Duo Melis in Strasbourg I was lucky to win a few competitions, which had me performing and giving classes all over Europe, the USA and of course Australia. I’ve also organised concert forays into south-east Asia, and I am keen to explore this region more.

I love playing all sorts of music, perhaps one of the main advantages of being a guitarist. I always include something Australian in my concert programs. I’m particularly passionate about early to mid 19th century music, the so-called romantic guitar, as a result of my research interests during and after study. I get excited about composers like Sor, Coste, Mertz, Regondi and Legnani, and particularly enjoy opening audiences’ and students’ ears to the freedoms that can bring this music to life.

My love of sharing the musical experience has lead me into a large number of different chamber music formations, from duos to septets, including the acclaimed guitar quartet Guitar Trek, the Duo Amythis with the wonderful  Belgian guitarist Véronique van Duurling, and another duo with Australian flautist Lina Andonovska. I have tours planned with the Phoenix Trio, popBarock, and a concert of guitar quintets, amongst other collaborations in 2020.

I like to compose, especially when I see the possibility of a performance. My works mainly include guitar, and don’t fit neatly into any particular style. I write music that I’d like to hear performed, and my tastes are varied.

Please feel free to enjoy my site, and don’t hesitate be in touch!