Ian has returned to Australia after living in Ireland since 2002. A master of the guitar he presents music from wide origins. Ancient celtic airs to Gypsy Jazz, Arabic, American blues and roots, New Orleans style as well as his original compositions
Ian learned guitar as a boy growing up in Macksville in the 1970's. Since then he has gone to carve out an international career for himself with appearing at festivals and events internationally. Appeared on more than 70 albums as a leader or a sideman., composed for film and television. Ian's guitar playing is featured in the latest Qantas safety video.
Ian has performed and recorded with players like James Morrison, Martin Taylor, Robin Nolan Tommy Emmanuel and Hank Marvin (The Shadows).
Hank had this to say about Ian:
“There are guitarists and there are guitarists and Ian Date is definitely one of them, (I meant one of the best of them).
His versatility is exceptional, a fine soloist with an outstanding knowledge of harmony and chord substitutions and an impressive ability to apply this in his improvisations.
Ian’s accompanying work with it’s moving bass lines and melodic chord voicing are jaw dropping and to top it all off he’s a most entertaining performer and a genuine “nice guy”.
’ve had the pleasure not only of seeing him perform on several occasions but of being invited to get up on stage and jam with him on some Gypsy Jazz standards.
If he’s performing in your area seize the opportunity to see and hear one of Australia’s finest guitarists.”
Hank B. Marvin
Enjoy an afternoon of virtuoso guitar playing, stories and songs from far off places and scenes.