Matthew Newman and Matthew McAllister

Bach. Philip Glass. Pat Metheny. Chick Corea. Hans Zimmer. One Guitar Duo.

These are not names typically found on the same concert program. For the Cochran & McAllister Duo, they are the starting point for a different kind of guitar concert—one that explores the connections among composers, styles, and musical traditions that are usually presented separately.

American guitarist and composer Matthew Cochran and Scottish guitarist Matthew McAllister formed the duo after more than a decade of friendship and artistic collaboration. Together they have built a partnership shaped by curiosity, creativity, and a shared interest in musical discovery.

Their programs move comfortably among Baroque masterworks, contemporary classical music, jazz influences, film scores, and original compositions. Bach and Vivaldi may appear alongside Philip Glass. Pat Metheny and Chick Corea may share the stage with contemporary classical works. Film music may sit comfortably beside original compositions. Rather than organizing concerts around historical periods or stylistic categories, Cochran & McAllister create programs that reveal unexpected relationships among composers, genres, and musical ideas.

Their debut recording, Pale Blue Dot, reflects this artistic philosophy. Inspired by Carl Sagan’s famous reflection on humanity’s place in the universe, the project combines original music, contemporary influences, jazz-inspired writing, and classical traditions into a cohesive artistic statement.

Both artists maintain active international careers as performers, educators, recording artists, and collaborators. Together they have earned recognition for thoughtful programming, exceptional ensemble playing, and engaging performances that connect naturally with audiences.

The result is a concert experience that feels both welcoming and adventurous—equally rewarding for dedicated classical music listeners and for audiences encountering the guitar in a new way.