The music of the Paraguayan guitarist-composer Augustin Barrios (1885-1944) has come to the attention of guitarists through the efforts of such artists as John Williams. The music of Barrios is typical of the acculturation that was present in the works of Latin American composers at the turn of the century. His compositional style shows both the influences of European Romanticism and of the nationalistic trends that were prevalent in Latin-American music in the latter half of the nineteenth century. His use of forms ranges from European staples such as the mazurka and waltz to South-American folk-music such as the Danzas Paraguayas. Though not as conspicuously programmatic as some of his other works, La Catedral is said to be based on a personal experience of the composer. Though perhaps apocryphal, the story provides a colorful backdrop to the piece. Finding solace near a quiet church in the bustling city of Montevideo, Barrios was inspired to compose the Andante religioso, with it's chorale-like textures and plaintive harmonies. The ensuing Allegro Solemne is said to represent his return to the noisy soundscape of the city. The prelude, initially composed as a single movement saudade in tribute to his wife, was later added to the piece.

Tracklist:

Valses Poeticos: Intro: Vivace Molto
Valses Poeticos: Melodico
Valses Poeticos: Tempo De Vals Lento
Valses Poeticos: Allegro Humoristico
Valses Poeticos: Quasi Ad Libitum (Sentimental)
Valses Poeticos: Vivo
Valses Poeticos: Presto
Valses Poeticos: Melodica
Rondeau De Conc, Op.12: Intro
Rondeau De Conc, Op.12: Allegretto
Collecti Intim: La Serenor
Collecti Intim: La Joia
Collecti Intim: La Calma
Collecti Intim: La Gaubanca
Collecti Intim: La Frisanca
Drei Tentos: Tranquillamente
Drei Tentos: Allegro Rubato
Drei Tentos: Cantabile
La Catedral: Prld 'Saudade'
La Catedral: Andante Religioso
La Catedral: Allegro Solemne
Tres Piezas Espanolas: Fandango
Tres Piezas Espanolas: Passacaglia
Tres Piezas Espanolas: Zapateado

UPC: 730099440127
Label: Naxos
Release Date: 11.5.96
Format: CD

Jeffrey Mcfadden - Guitar Recital / Various (CD)