Grammy Winner Al Di Meola Rocks Maui: Fusion Concert Awaits!
Guitar legend Al Di Meola will perform at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center on September 6, featuring jazz fusion and local artists.
Grammy Winner Al Di Meola Rocks Maui: Fusion Concert Awaits!
On September 6, 2025, the Maui Arts & Cultural Center will be alive with the vibrant sounds of Al Di Meola and his Electric Band. This Grammy-winning guitarist, known for seamlessly blending flamenco, tango, and Middle Eastern music into jazz fusion, promises a performance filled with high-energy selections from his storied career. Local artists Indio & Avi are set to open the show, providing an exciting start to the evening.
Di Meola’s rise to fame during the 1970s and 1980s is well-documented. He became a household name after joining Chick Corea’s influential group, Return to Forever, in 1974. His unparalleled technical mastery and complex compositions helped define an era in jazz music. During this period, he topped the polls of various music magazines, even inspiring artists such as Prince. The Miles Davis Award from the Montreal Jazz Festival stands testament to his contributions to the world of jazz.
Musical Milestones
Throughout his career, Al Di Meola has produced numerous iconic works. His debut album, „Land of the Midnight Sun,“ released in 1976, highlighted his exceptional collaborations with other renowned musicians. He went on to release “Elegant Gypsy” and the landmark live album “Friday Night in San Francisco,” co-starring John McLaughlin and Paco de Lucía, to great acclaim. This album alone sold over 7 million copies, marking a defining moment in his career.
Recent endeavors have seen Di Meola embracing a fresh sound. His latest album, „Twentyfour,“ released in 2024, merges acoustic and electric elements with a diverse range of instrumentation. It features a deeply personal touch, as much of it was recorded solo during the pandemic, showcasing his introspective approach to music. Di Meola eagerly describes his upcoming performance, stating it will revisit many of his early fusion titles, building a bridge between the old and new for his audience.
Personal Insights
Born Albert Laurence Di Meola on July 22, 1954, in Jersey City, New Jersey, the artist was raised in an Italian family and was first inspired to play guitar at the tender age of eight. Driven by the rock sounds of Elvis Presley and The Ventures, he later became enamored with the intricate world of jazz—his journey led him to Berklee College of Music, where he honed his craft with dedication, practicing up to eight to ten hours each day.
Beyond music, Di Meola emphasizes the importance of connection in every performance, whether it’s a grand concert or an intimate gathering. His Mediterranean Sundance events held in Capri creatively combine his passions for cooking and music. This reflective attitude towards performance resonates with fans old and new, especially as he approaches the stage at the MACC next month.
Community and Engagement
The concert gala also comes alongside a local buzz around other exciting developments, such as the launch of The Alabama Weather Network by James Spann on August 11. Spann, a well-known meteorologist, aims to provide 24/7 weather coverage across several platforms, offering invaluable information for community preparedness. This network’s commitment to better serve rural areas speaks to a growing trend of local engagement and awareness; something that growing artists like Di Meola also appreciate in their own way.
With ticket prices ranging from $15 to $125—a $100 meet-and-greet option available—this concert not only showcases a musical legend but also fortifies our local arts community. As Di Meola continues to learn and evolve, audiences can expect a performance that captivates and energizes. Join us at the MACC to witness this iconic artist live on stage!