Mikkel Egelund Nielsen and Simon Wildau, both highly accomplished classical guitarists, first met during their studies at the Royal Academy of Music in Aarhus, Denmark. Their mutual passion for guitar performance and chamber music led them to form the AROS Guitar Duo in 2009. The duo was initially created to perform a series of concerts in Bergen, Norway, but their collaboration quickly evolved into a long-term musical partnership that has seen them perform extensively in Denmark and internationally.
Both Nielsen and Wildau have achieved significant success both as soloists and as a duo, earning prestigious awards at numerous international competitions. Their accolades include the 1st prize at the Omiš Guitar Fest in Croatia, the 1st prize at the Fiuggi International Guitar Festival in Italy, the 2nd prize at the Acerra International Guitar Competition in Italy, and most recently, the 1st prize at the Liechtensteiner Gitarrentage in 2018. Additionally, in 2017, they were honored with a special prize for the best performance of a new Danish work at the P2 Chamber Music Competition for their rendition of John Frandsen’s guitar duo “Twilight.”
Individually, both guitarists have completed advanced studies in music. Mikkel Egelund Nielsen holds a Master’s Degree in Music from the prestigious Hochschule für Musik und Tanz in Cologne, Germany. Simon Wildau, on the other hand, earned his Master’s Degree in Music from the Escola Superior de Música de Catalunya in Barcelona, Spain. Their rigorous academic backgrounds have provided them with a strong foundation in classical guitar performance and have significantly shaped their musical careers.
Furthering their education, both Nielsen and Wildau completed the advanced postgraduate diploma (soloist class) at The Royal Academy of Music in Aarhus. In September 2018, they made their debut as a duo from the advanced postgraduate diploma (soloist level) at the Royal Danish Academy of Music in Copenhagen. Their studies were guided by Associate Professor in classical guitar Jesper Sivebæk and Professor Tim Frederiksen, both of whom are renowned for their expertise and contributions to the field of classical music.
The AROS Guitar Duo has also sought to expand their artistic horizons through international studies and masterclasses. Between 2010 and 2011, they studied in Barcelona with the esteemed Spanish guitarist Àlex Garrobé. Additionally, they have attended masterclasses conducted by various international soloists and professors, further refining their technique and interpretive skills.
Over the years, the AROS Guitar Duo has performed at numerous prestigious venues and festivals, captivating audiences with their technical proficiency, expressive performances, and dynamic repertoire. Their dedication to both classical and contemporary works has established them as a prominent duo in the classical guitar world.
Nielsen and Wildau’s partnership is characterized by a deep musical understanding and a shared commitment to excellence. Their ability to seamlessly blend their individual talents into a cohesive and compelling musical dialogue has been a hallmark of their performances. The duo’s success in competitions and their critical acclaim highlight their standing as one of the leading guitar duos of their generation.
As they continue to perform and expand their repertoire, the AROS Guitar Duo remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of classical guitar music. Their journey from their formative years at the Royal Academy of Music in Aarhus to their current status as award-winning musicians is a testament to their hard work, passion, and unwavering dedication to their craft.
