LEWISTON – Called a “natural poet” of his instrument by Venezuelan composer Luis Zea, classical guitarist Petar Jankovic will perform Saturday, Oct. 27, at Bates College.

Jankovic will perform Spanish and South American music by Albeniz, Piazzolla and others. Since beginning his professional music career in 1985, this native of Belgrade, Serbia, has performed throughout Europe and the United States.

His expressive performances and a technical mastery have earned him international acclaim and numerous prestigious awards. More than a classical guitar player, he is a person with the gift of communicating honest emotions.

Jankovic began guitar studies at age 8 in the former Yugoslavia, where he later earned a degree in classical guitar from the renowned Music Academy in Belgrade. At 16, he delivered his first professional performance, and he began teaching at 20.

He earned a master’s degree from the Indiana University School of Music and in the mid-1990s began studying with IU’s Ernesto Bitetti for the artist diploma degree. Today, he is on faculty there.

The 8 p.m. concert will be held in Olin Arts Center Concert Hall, 75 Russell St. It is open to the public free of charge. For more information, call 786-6135 or e-mail [email protected]. To learn more about Jankovic, visit www.petarjankovic.net.