Mark McCain & Erika Johnson:Touch the Strings- Cello and Guitar Duo

Mark McCain:Touch the Strings: Brother David’s Jig

This is a first rate performance by the Fingerstyle Guitar Cello Duo “Touch the Strings” with a song entitled  “Brother David’s Jig.”

I believe the composition is penned by Mark as well. (if not, I hope someone will correct me on this:

“Based in Houston, fingerstyle guitarist Mark McCain and Houston Grand Opera Cellist Erika Johnson have brought their diverse talents together to create what some industry notables are calling “…timeless music that will last for decades in people’s music collections…” With music ranging from modern classical, to Celtic, to bluegrass and jazz. This two-some has quickly become one of the most creative and versatile duos of their day. “If you enjoy the music of artists like Phil Keaggy, Tommy Emmanuel, or Yo Yo Ma, you are sure to love Touch the Strings.”  read more

Speaking of Phil Keaggy, he’s written a short endorsement on their site and says he “loves what they are doing.”  Hey Phil, so do I!

Mark McCain, who is originally from Oklahoma, grew up performing rock and pop, and by age 12, he was already appearing on television performing classical pieces.  You can hear in his playing-  a well rounded and diverse set of note choices derived from classical, Celtic and jazz.. Turns out Mark studied jazz in high school but continued to branch out, as he would later work with international legend Paul Jackson.

Cellist Erika Johnson who is originally from Houston,  received her bachelor of music degree from the Moores School of Music at the University of Houston. With excellent pitch and tone, it’s no wonder that she very busy with a lot of  chamber music and session work. She has performed with numerous ensembles, including the Houston Ballet orchestra, Mercury Baroque Ensemble, and extensively with the Fine Arts String Quartet.