Who's behind the notes? Discover Fernando Sor: The Beethoven of the Guitar
Fernando Sor was a Spanish classical guitarist and composer, born in 1778 and active during the Classical period. His "24 Exercices très faciles, Op. 35" is a set of guitar studies that are widely used by guitarists for technical development. Here are some interesting facts about Fernando Sor and this particular work:
Fernando Sor's Background: Sor was not only a guitarist but also a prolific composer. He wrote music for various instruments, including operas, ballets, and chamber music.
Opus 35: The "24 Exercices très faciles, Op. 35" is part of Sor's opus 35 collection, which consists of various studies and exercises for guitarists.
Technical Purpose: The Op. 35 studies are designed to help guitarists develop and refine their technical skills. They cover a range of techniques, including scales, arpeggios, and various right-hand and left-hand exercises.
Accessible Difficulty: Despite the title suggesting "very easy," these exercises are suitable for a wide range of skill levels. They provide a good foundation for beginners while offering challenges for more advanced players.
Pedagogical Value: Sor's works, including the Op. 35 studies, have become an integral part of classical guitar pedagogy. Many guitarists, both students and professionals, continue to use them for practice and teaching.
Musicality in Studies: One notable aspect of Sor's studies is the attention to musicality within the technical exercises. Instead of being purely mechanical, the studies often incorporate melodic and harmonic elements, making them more enjoyable to play.
Influence on Guitar Repertoire: Fernando Sor is considered one of the key figures in the development of the classical guitar repertoire. His contributions to the instrument's literature have had a lasting impact, and his studies are still widely studied and performed today.
Legacy: Sor's influence extends beyond his compositions. He contributed significantly to the classical guitar's recognition as a solo instrument, and his legacy continues to inspire and shape the approach to guitar playing.
Sor's Op. 35 studies are not only valuable for technical development but also offer insights into the musical and pedagogical aspects of classical guitar playing.