I read an interesting section from Art of Classical Guitar Playing (Amazon link) by Charles Duncan earlier today. It was on “The Principle of Functional Tension” and was aimed at dispelling the vague notion of “relaxation” in music. Instead, the author outlines two…
Cuban guitarist Alí Arango rips it up with Paco’s Güajiras de Lucía. Pretty amazing speed work and great rhythmic feel. Some info via his YouTube: “Guitar by Yuichi Imai. Realización y Edición: Alí Arango. Ali Arango was born on the 14th of December 1982 in…
Duo Vitare perform guitar and cello works in this absolutely stunning setting. This is classical music promotion at its best folks. Just wonderful. In promotion of their new recording: Duo Vitare – Canzonetta italianaAgnieszka Kotulska-Rahunen, celloKimmo Rahunen, guitar Music by…
Tal Hurwitz Plays Sonatina for Guitar op.52 by Lennox Berkeley. I actually posted a live version of him playing this previously but this studio version is better and who doesn’t love this work enough to hear it again. Nice recording…
Lesson: Study No. 19, Op. 60 by Matteo Carcassi. From my PDF eBook: Ten Classical Etudes. Includes fingering, notation & notation + TAB edition. YouTube Video Link. Allegro Moderato, Study No. 19, Op. 60 by Matteo CarcassiDespite being No. 19 in…
One of the biggest problems with music education these days is that many students are practicing scales in the same way, everyday…forever. For example, let’s say a teacher is using the Canadian Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) exams as a…
Rolf Lislevand plays A.Stradivari Sabionari, 1679 guitar. He’s playing Tarantela by Spanish guitarist and composer Santiago de Murcia (1673–1739). I just love Baroque guitar with its pluckier softer sound. When played on modern guitar the strumming is a bit harsh and…
Fikret Amirov‘s Lyrical Dance and On Hunting from Miniatures played by Russian guitarist Rovshan Mamedkuliev via GSI. Wow, a beautiful opening work followed by some extreme virtuosity in the dance. Make sure to keep watching! Mamedkuliev is the 2012 GFA winner.…
Many students wonder how often they should practice with a metronome because there is little consensus in music education as to the benefits or negative consequences. Before outlining some pros and cons of metronome use I’d like to tell you what…
Nocturnal after John Dowland, op. 70 by Benjamin BrittenThese posts explore famous works of the past and present. You might enjoy the history and video performances, or this might be a good way for students to become familiar with the famous works. Sheet…
Rovshan Mamedkuliev Plays Gran Jota by Tárrega via the Portland Classic Guitar Series. This guy definitely has energy…too fast on occasion? Impressive nevertheless. I do like his extreme articulations and dynamics, it’s exciting and fun! If more people played like this…
Some of my students are starting to play weddings and they are filled with questions. I’ve played many wedding over the years but I remember how nerve racking the first few were. If only I had a small guide and…