COMPOSERS
Five Preludes for Guitar – Heitor Villa-Lobos
Between 1940 and 1945, Heitor Villa-Lobos composed five Preludes for guitar, works that today form one of the cornerstones of the universal guitar repertoire.
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Fantasía in C Minor
The Fantasía in C Minor by Weiss is a brief yet profoundly expressive work, composed in 1719. Originally written for the baroque lute, this piece has been successfully adapted into the classical guitar repertoire, retaining its introspective character and harmonic richness.
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Homenaje a Toulouse Lautrec
“Homage to Toulouse-Lautrec” is a guitar composition by Spanish composer and guitarist Eduardo Sainz de la Maza (Burgos, 1903 – Barcelona, 1982), written in 1967.
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Alman – Robert Johnson
“Alman” is a lute work by English composer and lutenist Robert Johnson (London, 1583 – 1633), one of the most prominent musicians at the courts of James I and Charles I.
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Preludio n1. Heitor Villa-Lobos
Prelude No. 1 in E Minor is one of the most celebrated pieces by Heitor Villa-Lobos (Rio de Janeiro, 1887 – 1959), composed in 1940 as part of his Five Preludes for guitar.
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Danza del Molinero – Manuel de Falla
“Dance of the Miller” is one of the most recognizable pieces from the ballet The Three-Cornered Hat, composed by Manuel de Falla (Cádiz, 1876 – Alta Gracia, Argentina, 1946) and premiered in 1919.
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Danza de los Vecinos – Manuel de Falla
“Dance of the Neighbors” is a piece from The Three-Cornered Hat, a ballet composed by Manuel de Falla (Cádiz, 1876 – Alta Gracia, Argentina, 1946) and premiered in 1919.
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Canción del Fuego Fatuo – Manuel de Falla
“Canción del Fuego Fatuo” is one of the most iconic melodies from El amor brujo, a ballet composed by Manuel de Falla (Cádiz, 1876 – Alta Gracia, Argentina, 1946) and premiered in 1915.
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Cádiz – Isaac Albéniz
“Cádiz” is a piece originally composed for piano by Isaac Albéniz (Camprodón, 1860 – Cambo-les-Bains, 1909) in 1886, as part of his Suite Española Op. 47. Although titled “Saeta,” the piece does not directly reflect the style of Andalusian saetas, but rather presents a serenade that evokes the atmosphere of the city of Cádiz.
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Sevilla – Isaac Albéniz
“Sevilla” is a work by Spanish composer Isaac Albéniz, born on May 29, 1860, and passed away on May 18, 1909. Composed in 1910, this piece is part of his Suite Española, which pays tribute to various regions of Spain. Sevilla stands out for its vibrant Andalusian character and rich rhythmic variety, incorporating elements of flamenco and folk music.
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Five Preludes for Guitar – Heitor Villa-Lobos
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Fantasía in C Minor
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Homenaje a Toulouse Lautrec
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Alman – Robert Johnson
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Preludio n1. Heitor Villa-Lobos
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Danza del Molinero – Manuel de Falla
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Danza de los Vecinos – Manuel de Falla
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Canción del Fuego Fatuo – Manuel de Falla
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Cádiz – Isaac Albéniz
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Sevilla – Isaac Albéniz
La Catedral
7mins : 24seg
Agustín Barrios
La Catedral, composed in 1921 by Agustín Barrios Mangoré (San Juan Bautista, 1885 – San Salvador, 1944), is a true masterpiece of the guitar repertoire. Inspired by both architecture and religious spirituality, it seamlessly fuses romantic and baroque techniques across three movements that require exceptional virtuosity and interpretative sensitivity.
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Capricho Árabe – Francisco Tárrega
“Capricho Árabe” is a masterpiece by Spanish composer and guitarist Francisco Tárrega, born in 1852 and passed away in 1909. Composed in 1892, this piece is a brilliant example of the fusion between classical music and the influences of flamenco and Arabic music.
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La Catedral – Agustín Barrios
“La Catedral” is a cornerstone work by Paraguayan composer Agustín Barrios, born on May 5, 1885, and passed away on August 7, 1944. Composed in 1939, the piece is divided into three sections: Preludio, Andante, and Allegro, each with its own distinct character and atmosphere.
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Mi Favorita – Daniel Fortea
“Mi Favorita” is a remarkable work by Spanish composer Daniel Fortea, born in 1882 and passed away in 1934. Composed in 1916, this piece is a clear example of the Romantic style that characterizes much of Fortea’s work.
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Dialogando – Daniel Fortea
“Dialogando” is a work by Spanish composer Daniel Fortea, born in 1882 and passed away in 1934. Composed in 1932, this piece reflects the influence of the Romantic style and the melodic richness that define Fortea’s music.
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Canción No. 6 – Federico Mompou
“Canción No. 6” is a work by Spanish composer Federico Mompou, born on April 16, 1893, and passed away on March 30, 1987. Composed in 1921 as part of his Canciones y Danzas cycle, this piece stands out for its lyricism and melodic subtlety.
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Golliwogg´s Cake Walk – Claude Debussy
“Golliwogg’s Cake Walk” is a piece by French composer Claude Debussy, born on August 22, 1862, and passed away on March 25, 1918. Composed in 1908 as part of his piano suite Children’s Corner, this work reflects Debussy’s playful style and harmonic innovation.
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Chau París – Astor Piazzolla
“Chau París” is one of the most iconic compositions by the renowned Argentine composer and bandoneonist Astor Piazzolla, known for revolutionizing traditional tango and elevating it to new heights within classical and jazz music. Composed in 1980, this piece encapsulates the essence of Piazzolla’s unique style, blending the passion of tango with elements of contemporary music.
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En Los Trigales – Joaquin Rodrigo
“En Los Trigales” is a work by Spanish composer Joaquín Rodrigo, born on November 22, 1901, and passed away on July 14, 1999. Composed in 1961, this piece is part of his collection Cuatro Piezas Españolas. Rodrigo, known for his ability to blend elements of Spanish folklore with classical techniques, presents in this piece a soundscape that evokes the tranquility and beauty of wheat fields.
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Sons de Carillhões – Joaquim Pernambuco
“Sons de Carillhões” is a standout work by Brazilian composer Joaquim dos Santos Pernambuco, renowned for his contributions to both classical and popular music in Brazil. Composed in a context where the fusion of styles was essential, this piece reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage and musical diversity.
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Choros n1 – Heitor Villa-Lobos
“Choros No. 1” is one of the most iconic works by Brazilian composer Heitor Villa-Lobos, who is considered one of the most important and prolific composers in Latin America. Composed in 1920, this piece is a remarkable example of the fusion between classical music and Brazil’s rich folk traditions, reflecting the cultural diversity of the country.
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Capricho Árabe – Francisco Tárrega
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La Catedral – Agustín Barrios
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Mi Favorita – Daniel Fortea
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Dialogando – Daniel Fortea
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Canción No. 6 – Federico Mompou
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Golliwogg´s Cake Walk – Claude Debussy
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Chau París – Astor Piazzolla
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En Los Trigales – Joaquin Rodrigo
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Sons de Carillhões – Joaquim Pernambuco
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Choros n1 – Heitor Villa-Lobos
Danzas Españolas
9mins : 21seg
Gaspar Sanz
The Spanish Dances by Gaspar Sanz (Calanda, 1640 – Madrid, c.1710), composed around 1674, are integral to his method for the baroque guitar. These pieces blend popular Spanish rhythms with courtly refinement, showcasing a remarkable richness in both rhythm and harmony that is essential to the development of the Iberian guitar repertoire.
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Secret Garden – Rolf Lovland
“Secret Garden” is a captivating work by Norwegian composer and pianist Rolf Løvland, known for his ability to blend classical elements with contemporary influences and evocative melodies. This piece, part of the repertoire of his musical duo Secret Garden, stands out for its lyricism and magical atmosphere, transporting the listener into a dreamlike world.
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Diferencias sobre Guárdame las Vacas – L. Narváez
“Diferencias sobre Guárdame las Vacas” is an iconic work by Spanish composer and lutenist Luis de Narváez, who lived during the 16th century and is renowned for his contributions to Renaissance music.
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Variaciones sobre un tema de Mozart – Fernando Sor
“Variations on a Theme by Mozart” is a notable work by Spanish composer and guitarist Fernando Sor, who is considered one of the most important figures in classical guitar during the 19th century. Published in 1821, this piece is based on a theme from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s famous opera The Abduction from the Seraglio, reflecting Sor’s admiration for the Austrian master and his talent for reinterpreting classical melodies.
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Soleá – Julián Arcas
“Soleá” is a significant work by Spanish composer and guitarist Julián Arcas, who stood out in the 19th century for his contributions to both classical and flamenco guitar repertoire.
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La Niña de los Cabellos de Lino – Debussy
“The Girl with the Flaxen Hair” is one of the most enchanting works by French composer Claude Debussy, included in his song cycle Ariettes oubliées, published in 1888.
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Fandango Variado – Dionisio Aguado
“Fandango Variado” is an emblematic work by Spanish composer and guitarist Dionisio Aguado, a key figure in the development of classical guitar in the 19th century.
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Milonga – Jorge Cardoso
“Milonga” is a captivating work by Argentine composer Jorge Cardoso, born in 1934. Composed in 1986, this piece blends the rich tradition of Argentine tango with the language of classical guitar, creating a vibrant and emotive musical dialogue.
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Madroños – Francisco Torroba
“Madroños” is an iconic work by Spanish composer Francisco Torroba (1891–1982), a leading figure in 20th-century Spanish classical music. Composed in 1930, this piece reflects the rich folkloric tradition of Spain, blending evocative melodies with brilliant guitar technique.
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Adiós Nonino
“Adiós Nonino” is considered one of Piazzolla’s most iconic works, alongside “Libertango.” The composer himself described it as “the most beautiful piece I’ve ever written.”
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Milonga del Ángel
The Milonga, stands out for its melancholy and beauty, fusing emotion into a masterpiece. It is one of Piazzolla’s saddest and most beautiful compositions—a piece that invites repeated listening without ever losing its charm.
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Secret Garden – Rolf Lovland
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Diferencias sobre Guárdame las Vacas – L. Narváez
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Variaciones sobre un tema de Mozart – Fernando Sor
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Soleá – Julián Arcas
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La Niña de los Cabellos de Lino – Debussy
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Fandango Variado – Dionisio Aguado
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Milonga – Jorge Cardoso
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Madroños – Francisco Torroba
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Adiós Nonino
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Milonga del Ángel
Sonata n74
6mins : 20seg
Carlos Seixas
The Sonata No. 74 in A minor by Carlos Seixas (Coimbra, 1704 – Lisbon, 1742), composed between 1720 and 1742, exemplifies the transition from the baroque style to the galant. It comprises two movements: a virtuosic Allegro and an elegant, refined Minuet. Originally written for harpsichord or organ, its adaptation for the modern guitar facilitates the exploration of ornate textures and expressive contrasts, highlighting the melodic richness and structural clarity that are characteristic of 18th-century Portuguese style.
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Secret Garden – Rolf Lovland
“Secret Garden” is a captivating work by Norwegian composer and pianist Rolf Løvland, known for his ability to blend classical elements with contemporary influences and evocative melodies. This piece, part of the repertoire of his musical duo Secret Garden, stands out for its lyricism and magical atmosphere, transporting the listener into a dreamlike world.
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Diferencias sobre Guárdame las Vacas – L. Narváez
“Diferencias sobre Guárdame las Vacas” is an iconic work by Spanish composer and lutenist Luis de Narváez, who lived during the 16th century and is renowned for his contributions to Renaissance music.
-
Variaciones sobre un tema de Mozart – Fernando Sor
“Variations on a Theme by Mozart” is a notable work by Spanish composer and guitarist Fernando Sor, who is considered one of the most important figures in classical guitar during the 19th century. Published in 1821, this piece is based on a theme from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s famous opera The Abduction from the Seraglio, reflecting Sor’s admiration for the Austrian master and his talent for reinterpreting classical melodies.
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Soleá – Julián Arcas
“Soleá” is a significant work by Spanish composer and guitarist Julián Arcas, who stood out in the 19th century for his contributions to both classical and flamenco guitar repertoire.
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La Niña de los Cabellos de Lino – Debussy
“The Girl with the Flaxen Hair” is one of the most enchanting works by French composer Claude Debussy, included in his song cycle Ariettes oubliées, published in 1888.
-
Fandango Variado – Dionisio Aguado
“Fandango Variado” is an emblematic work by Spanish composer and guitarist Dionisio Aguado, a key figure in the development of classical guitar in the 19th century.
-
Milonga – Jorge Cardoso
“Milonga” is a captivating work by Argentine composer Jorge Cardoso, born in 1934. Composed in 1986, this piece blends the rich tradition of Argentine tango with the language of classical guitar, creating a vibrant and emotive musical dialogue.
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Madroños – Francisco Torroba
“Madroños” is an iconic work by Spanish composer Francisco Torroba (1891–1982), a leading figure in 20th-century Spanish classical music. Composed in 1930, this piece reflects the rich folkloric tradition of Spain, blending evocative melodies with brilliant guitar technique.
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Adiós Nonino
“Adiós Nonino” is considered one of Piazzolla’s most iconic works, alongside “Libertango.” The composer himself described it as “the most beautiful piece I’ve ever written.”
-
Milonga del Ángel
The Milonga, stands out for its melancholy and beauty, fusing emotion into a masterpiece. It is one of Piazzolla’s saddest and most beautiful compositions—a piece that invites repeated listening without ever losing its charm.
-
Secret Garden – Rolf Lovland
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Diferencias sobre Guárdame las Vacas – L. Narváez
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Variaciones sobre un tema de Mozart – Fernando Sor
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Soleá – Julián Arcas
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La Niña de los Cabellos de Lino – Debussy
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Fandango Variado – Dionisio Aguado
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Milonga – Jorge Cardoso
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Madroños – Francisco Torroba
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Adiós Nonino
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Milonga del Ángel
Concierto de Aranjuez
21mins
Joaquín Rodrigo
The Concierto de Aranjuez, composed in 1939 by Joaquín Rodrigo (Sagunto, 1901 – Madrid, 1999), is the most renowned work in the concert repertoire for guitar. Divided into three movements, it is especially celebrated for its lyricism, particularly in the Adagio. The concerto artfully combines Spanish tradition with a neoclassical style, demanding exceptional expressiveness and technical mastery from the performer.
Concierto para un Gentilhombre
21mins
Joaquín Rodrigo
The Concierto para un gentilhombre, composed in 1954 by Joaquín Rodrigo (Sagunto, 1901 – Madrid, 1999), was written for Andrés Segovia. Inspired by dances from the Spanish baroque, its four movements elegantly reinterpret the style of Gaspar Sanz. This work demands not only virtuosity and clarity of articulation but also a refined sense of musicality from the performer.
Seis Caprichos Op. 26
Mateo Carcassi
The Seis Caprichos Op. 26 by Matteo Carcassi (Florence, 1796 – Paris, 1853), published around 1827, are essential pieces in the romantic guitar repertoire. Designed as musical studies, they blend technical skill with expressiveness, focusing on aspects such as arpeggios, scales, and articulations. Their inherent musicality makes them ideal for both technical development and artistic interpretation.
Preludio, Balletto y Giga en Mi Mayor
8mins : 15seg
Manuel Ponce
The Preludio, Balletto y Giga in E Major, composed in 1931 by Manuel M. Ponce (Fresnillo, 1882 – Mexico City, 1948), is a suite of three movements that pays homage to the baroque style. Influenced by his friendship with Andrés Segovia, Ponce skillfully recreates ancient forms while employing modern harmonic language. The *Preludio* showcases arpeggiated and lyrical writing; the *Balletto* evokes courtly dances with an elegant rhythm; and the *Giga* concludes with vivacity and precise articulation. This work requires both technical control and a deep understanding of style, making it ideal for guitarists who wish to explore the fusion of tradition and modernity.
Valses Venezolanos
Antonio Lauro
The Valses Venezolanos by Antonio Lauro (Ciudad Bolívar, 1917 – Caracas, 1986), composed between 1940 and 1960, are essential works in the Latin American guitar repertoire. They blend lyricism and Venezuelan popular rhythms with classical writing, renowned for their melodic elegance and harmonic richness. These pieces demand sensitivity and a refined sense of rubato from the performer.
Five Preludes
Heitor Villa-Lobos
The Cinco Preludios by Heitor Villa-Lobos (Rio de Janeiro, 1887 – 1959), composed in 1940, explore the essence of the Brazilian soul through the guitar. Each piece evokes a distinct character, blending lyricism, popular elements, and advanced techniques. These works are fundamental to the modern repertoire because of their expressiveness and structural complexity.
Six Pieces for Anna Magdalena Bach
J. S. Bach
The Six Pieces for Anna Magdalena Bach, compiled in 1725 by J.S. Bach (Eisenach, 1685 – Leipzig, 1750), adapt baroque dances originally composed for keyboard. These guitar arrangements offer melodic clarity and harmonic richness, making them ideal for developing technique and expression within the intimate and domestic baroque style.
Tocata in the Style of Corelli
8mins : 30seg
Santiago de Murcia
The Tocata in the Style of Corelli by Santiago de Murcia (Madrid, 1673 – Madrid, 1739), composed around 1732, adapts passages from sonatas by Arcangelo Corelli. It blends the Italian style with techniques from the Spanish baroque guitar, alternating between plucking and strumming. This piece is crucial for exploring ornamentation and counterpoint in baroque guitar music.
Homenaje a Tárrega
8mins : 30seg
Joaquín Turina
Homenaje a Tárrega, composed in 1932 by Joaquín Turina (Seville, 1882 – Madrid, 1949), is an evocative piece for guitar that pays tribute to the Valencian master. It blends Andalusian lyricism with impressionistic language, requiring expressive subtlety and mastery of the distinctive tonal colour typical of 20th-century Spanish repertoire.
Evocaciones
García Abril
Evocaciones, composed in 1981 by Antón García Abril (Teruel, 1933 – Madrid, 2021), is a suite of five pieces that explore the poetic expressiveness of the guitar. Featuring evocative titles and contemporary language, the work requires interpretative sensitivity and mastery of tonal colour.
Suite Compostelana
Federico Mompou
The Suite Compostelana, composed in 1962 by Federico Mompou (Barcelona, 1893 – 1987), is an intimate work dedicated to Andrés Segovia. Its six movements, characterised by a neoclassical and spiritual style, evoke the atmosphere of Santiago de Compostela. The piece requires technical refinement and expressive depth, conveyed through a sober and contemplative language.
GALLARDO DEL REY´S COMPOSITIONS
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Fuego
One of the most requested pieces by both flamenco and classical guitarists. Structured as a soleá por bulerías, it is conceived as a showpiece—perfect for an encore. It focuses on the use of natural harmonics, arpeggios, and rasgueados to embellish the melodic lines.
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Trianeira
Trianeira is a piece composed by José María Gallardo del Rey and dedicated to one of the living beings I’ve loved the most and who has given me the most love: “my little dog Triana.”
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Banderillas de Tiniebla – Gallardo del Rey
"Banderillas De Tiniebla" was a commission from my "brother," Master and mentor Félix Grande for the anniversary issue of "Cuadernos Hispanoamericanos" dedicated to Federico García Lorca in 1986.
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Fali, Love Theme – Gallardo del Rey
This piece is a dedication to my love for the seventh art and for those lyrical themes that appear in many of the films that have always fascinated me.
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Rosales – Gallardo del Rey
The work is dedicated to the distinguished Andalusian poet Luis Rosales, with a strong flamenco accent where the presence of "tientos" and "tangos" coexist in the rhythmic space.
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Asturias – Gallardo del Rey
The work composed by José María Gallardo del Rey is based on the Anthem of Asturias, upon which various variations are projected.
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Fuego
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Trianeira
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Banderillas de Tiniebla – Gallardo del Rey
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Fali, Love Theme – Gallardo del Rey
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Rosales – Gallardo del Rey
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Asturias – Gallardo del Rey
California Suite
Gallardo del Rey
““California Suite” was my first work. It was from this piece that I officially debuted as a composer. It was a graduation gift from my “brother” Joseph Mastroianni, who came to Spain from California to study guitar. The piece clearly reflects influences from Bach, Rachmaninoff, and Broadway-style music.”
Simple Suite
Gallardo del Rey
Simple Suite is a collection of five pieces: Prelude, Siciliana, Pavane, Copla in the form of Habanera, and Giga. These pieces aim to guide the guitarist and musician through different sound colours, always from a level of accessibility for all.
Lorca Suite
Gallardo del Rey
Lorca Suite is my personal recreation of the popular songs that Lorca collected and published. In this work, I highlight the technical and expressive aspects of what I understand as the Spanish Guitar.
