“Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.”
(Ephesians 6:11)
Gladius — n. sword
In an era when expertise and originality are often overlooked in lieu of fleeting flash and flare, Gladius defines innovation as a composer and mastery as an instrumentalist. Inspired by the great classical composers (Vivaldi, Bach, Beethoven) and Spanish flamenco legends (Paco De Lucia and Carlos Montoya) and much more, Gladius is perpetually pushing the boundaries of his Neo-Classical-Flamenco fusion.
Just a few short years ago however, it appeared that the ultimate dream of pursuing a music career–his true passion–might have been over all too soon for Gladius. A mysterious medical condition manifested its symptoms literally overnight. On June 14th 2005, while studying classical guitar at Georgia State University’s School of Music under Professor John Sutherland, the aspiring virtuoso suddenly suffered from a rather crippling case of nerve damage, greatly hindering the sensation and dexterity of both hands.
But that wasn’t going to stop an ambitious career that had hardly begun. Over the next several years, driven by more relentless discipline and determination than ever before, and owing in part to surgical procedure and extensive (ongoing) physical therapy, the neurological condition improved significantly.
Much later, on June 14th 2011, Gladius released a triumphant studio debut, celebrating recovery and bringing this story to vivid life for a whole world of listeners to hear:
Post-Operation Demonstration
Though still not 100% recovered, the composer continues to strive for the unattainable, feeding off the endless inspiration the good Lord provides.
Reviews:
” The first type of music that actually goes “Beyond the Riff”, no lyrics, exciting and different, building on this vision of this ministry.”…5 thumbs up”
–DJ Rob “Priest” Duplantis, “Beyond the Riff” (AM 1300 KSET, Beaumont, TX)
“You rock brother! God has blessed you with that operation and you sound great!”
–DJ Jimmy Allen, Praise the Rock Radio
“While some of us idolize certain guitar greats, learn to play all of their songs, and aspire to be like them, Gladius is a guy who will actually become one of those greats.”
–Zac Caudell (Guitar Student)
” I feel there is no one that I have ever listened to that has more talent playing the guitar!”
Tammy Whitworth (Engagement Director) – Arbor Terrace Assisted Living of Tucker
“A few of our residents have traveled to Spanish countries and one resident said ‘I could listen to this all day’”
Angie King (Activity Director) – Spanish Oaks Retreat – Savannah, GA