WOMAD

Kike Pederson

From Paraguay, United Kingdom

Back in May, Charlie Gillett posted a polemic on his website about the tired and outmoded domination of the six-string guitar in contemporary music. Why does an instrument have to have six strings? Why not two, or 20 or 78? This passionate outpouring was a preamble to the introduction of a remarkable talent from Paraguay in South America, called Kike Pedersen, who happens to be a virtuoso of the 24-stringed Paraguayan harp. Pedersen is currently an English student in London, but rather than consecrating his spare time to pub and club action, he’s been busy building a considerable reputation as a harpist and support act to many a visiting Latino star. Nephew of the uncontested King of Paraguayan harpers, Rito Pedersen, Kike Pedersen started playing the instrument at the tender age of 12 at home in the Paraguayan capital Asunción. He has performed in Brazil, Israel, all over Europe and throughout the UK, and released numerous CDs. His music is rhythmic and tender by turns, whilst always remaining soulful, with that light touch which is the harp’s unique prerogative. It’s music for floating, dreaming and dancing!