Robert Bekkers, guitar
Robert Bekkers received his first music lesson at the age of six following which he studied the French horn and trumpet. After a diploma in electronics, he attended the Conservatory of Maastricht where he received his teaching and master's degrees in classical guitar. During this time, Robert actively participated in international master classes with Costas Cotsiolis, Hubert Käppel, David Russell, Pepe Romero, Sonja Prunnbauer, Dale Kavanach, Abel Carlevaro, Alexander Frauchi, amongst others. A scholarship enabled him to study abroad with the Italian guitarist and composer Angelo Gilardino. Robert is versatile in classical, flamenco, jazz and other styles.
While accompanying flamenco dance classes, Robert formed the group "IMPETU", mixing flamenco and classical music. He has also played with the group Serenata Mexicana, toured with the Amstel Guitar Quartet and performed with the internationally known flute player Berdien Stenberg.
In recent years, Robert has focussed on performing his own compositions and arrangements in a variety of settings, many of which are listed on this web site.
Anne Ku, piano
Born in Brunei of Chinese parents, Anne Ku grew up on Okinawa, where she received her first piano lesson at the age of eight. Only a few years later, she became accompanist of the local school choir. Her extraordinary sight-reading skill quickly led to engagements as keyboardist for local rock bands, rehearsal pianist for musical productions, contract party pianist, church organist, and private piano teacher.
Anne studied classical piano under Randall Love at Duke University, where she also earned her bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. Later, while working in the financial and energy sectors in Singapore, London, and Houston, Anne continued to accompany, perform, and compose music on the side.Today, her extensive travel commitments as editor of an energy magazine, provides ample opportunity to meet and perform with musicians all over the world.
Anne maintains a web site dedicated to, among other things, self-expression through original music, art and writing at http://www.analyticalQ.com.