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An exploration of all topics related to the classical guitar. Articles on guitar technique and practicing, guitar-related opportunities and many general performance and music-related topics. Articles on my students' activities and spotlight features on alumni. Easily searchable by the following tags:

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Rio Manzanares' Junior Recital

Rio Manzanares' Junior Recital

Rio played his Sophomore Recital only last fall, so his window for the preparation of this program was quite short. (See his Freshman Recital here). Still, he managed to assemble an impressive array of disparate concert works. The two largest pieces on the program, works by Ponce and Brouwer, were significantly more challenging than his previous pieces. Still, he presented them with confidence and enthusiasm, and the audience loved it. (Full program at the end of the post).

Rio Manzanares on stage in Fairchild Chapel.

He kicked off the proceedings with a beautiful variations set by Fernando Sor. Inspired as he was by Manuel Barrueco’s recording of the piece, he brought some of the master’s tone and pacing to his performance.

A pair of Sonatas by Scarlatti was then followed by Ponce’s sunny Sonata Meridional. Rio clearly has much affection for this music, as his presentation was focused and spirited.

He finished with a Brouwer masterwork, Rito de los Orishas, a complex and challenging piece which introduced some wonderful colors and textures to the concert.

Rio with his parents after the show

Bravo Rio, for an impressive accomplishment. We look forward to your next moves!

Rio with me in front of Bosworth Hall, site of Fairchild Chapel

Grigor Ylli's Sophomore Recital

Grigor Ylli's Sophomore Recital

Aleksandr Lapshin's Sophomore Recital

Aleksandr Lapshin's Sophomore Recital

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