Canadian guitarist Drew Henderson plays Largo non tanto from Fantasie, Op. 7 by Fernando Sor (1778–1839) on an 1868 René Lacôte guitar. This comes via his fantastic YouTube channel. Fantasic playing as usual from Henderson. I love 19th century guitars for Sor as their plucky and clear sound equalizes the music somehow. The modern guitar is so mid-tone heavy with washy sustain and overtones everywhere. This is so much more charming. Drew’s YouTube blurb: “I had the opportunity to play and record on an original René Lacôte guitar during a visit to Italy. Lacôte was one of the most important guitar builders of the 19th century, and his instruments were played by Aguado, Carulli, Sor and Coste. This instrument is dated 1868, and is believed to be one of the last two guitars he ever built. This guitar is incredibly responsive, colourful, and an absolute joy to play. It is tuned low at the request of the owner, and I really think it sings at the tuning…This instrument was used with kind permission from the owner, Matteo Mela. Filmed in Aosta Valley, Italy.”
Drew Henderson Plays Sor on a 1868 Lacôte
