Pierre Bensusan, the virtuoso French-Algerian guitarist, makes his first concert appearance in Toronto in seven years on July 8th at Trinity St. Paul's United Church.

Bensusan's 2012 North American tour schedule originally contained no Canadian dates until local singer/songwriter and Bensusan fan Luke Jackson intervened. "I was horrified when Pierre left us off his tour schedule again" says Jackson. "He's one of the finest guitarists in the world and he has an audience in Toronto". "I spoke to Pierre, then his agent, then the good people at Trinity St. Paul's, and by the end of the day I was a concert promoter. It's the most expensive concert ticket I've ever bought!".

Pierre Bensusan has, throughout his career and string of recordings, confirmed his place as an acoustic visionary who combines sensibility with shadings of ethereal jazz, pop, ethnic and classical melodies, free and fusion styles. Born in 1957 in French Algeria, Bensusan released his debut album Près de Paris in 1975 at the age of 17. It won Le Grand Prix du Disque at the Montreaux Festival in Switzerland (1976). More albums and extensive touring followed, as well as a recording contract with Columbia in the US.

"Pierre’s music gives me the shakes. No other guitarist shares his strange gifts of sophistication, accessibility and downright joy. Even at its most complex, Pierre’s music only needs ears to be enjoyed."
Leo Kottke

"Listening to Pierre Bensusan is rejuvenating. Beside his extraordinary touch and tone, the notes and melody appeal directly to the tender side of our human nature."
Steve Vai

"One of the best acoustic guitarists on the planet. His passion and ability to express complex musicality and sensitivity is unsurpassed. Pierre Bensusan is an exquisite, unique and passionate acoustical musical experience."
Acoustic Magazine, UK