The Story of Fernando Sor: A Guitarist Ahead of His Time

TLDRLearn about the life and music of Fernando Sor, a highly regarded guitarist and composer of the early 19th century. Despite facing challenges and a decline in the popularity of the guitar, Sor created exceptional music that continues to captivate listeners to this day. Discover his unique playing style and the ongoing research and interpretation of his works.

Key insights

🎸Fernando Sor was one of the greatest composer-guitarists of the early 19th century.

🎵His music is dramatic, emotional, expressive, and a joy to play.

🎶Sor's compositions for the guitar stand out among those of his contemporaries.

🎭His ballet composition 'Cendrillon' achieved great success in the European theaters.

🎼Sor's last composition, 'Fantaisie Élégiaque,' showcases his profound emotions and grief.

Q&A

What makes Fernando Sor's music special?

Sor's music is known for its dramatic and emotional qualities, as well as its expressiveness and surprise. It is considered a joy to play for musicians.

Did Fernando Sor face any challenges in his career?

Yes, Sor faced challenges in establishing himself as an opera composer and struggled to gain recognition from the musical establishment. He also had to adapt to the declining popularity of the guitar as a solo instrument.

What is Fernando Sor's most famous composition?

One of Sor's most popular compositions is the Mozart Variations, op. 9, which is loved by both performers and audiences.

What is unique about Sor's right hand technique?

Sor often avoided using the ring finger and instead played with the thumb on the treble strings. This technique, although unconventional, can create a unique and evocative sound.

How should one approach playing Sor's music today?

While there is no one right way to play Sor's music, it is recommended to be aware of his playing style, which includes using gut strings, a historic guitar, and no fingernails. However, interpretations and approaches may vary among musicians.

Timestamped Summary

00:05Fernando Sor was a highly regarded composer-guitarist of the early 19th century.

00:35Sor's music is known for its dramatic, emotional, and expressive qualities.

03:30During Sor's time, the guitar faced periods of fluctuating interest and popularity.

04:15Sor, born into a Spanish middle-class family, had a passion for music from an early age.

07:26Sor faced challenges in establishing himself as an opera composer.

11:21Sor's music is preserved mainly in published editions, with some inconsistencies and misprints.

14:29Sor's right hand technique included avoiding the ring finger and using the thumb on the treble strings.

16:53Sor's music fell into obscurity after his death, but efforts to rediscover and interpret his works are ongoing.