Baroque Images

Album Description

Stefano Grondona's captivating album, Baroque Images, is a masterful collection of rearranged Baroque pieces for the guitar. Released on 4 October 2002 by Stradivarius, this hour-long album is a testament to Grondona's skill and dedication to his craft.

The album features an array of stunning arrangements, including Friedrich Wilhelm Zachow's Tombeau fait à Paris sur la mort de Monsieur Blancheroche, and Johann Sebastian Bach's Cello Suite No. 4 in E-Flat Major, BWV 1010. Grondona's interpretation of Bach's iconic suite is particularly noteworthy, with each movement - from the Prelude to the Gigue - showcasing his technical prowess and expressive playing style.

In addition to Bach's works, the album also includes arrangements of suites by other Baroque composers, as well as Domenico Scarlatti's Keyboard Sonatas in G Major and A Minor. Grondona's ability to adapt these pieces for the guitar is a true highlight of the album, demonstrating his deep understanding of the music and his instrument.

Throughout Baroque Images, Stefano Grondona's passion for the Baroque era shines through, and his playing is characterised by a sense of elegance and refinement. This album is a must-listen for fans of Baroque music and the guitar, offering a unique and captivating listening experience that showcases Grondona's exceptional artistry.

4 okt 2002

2002 Stradivarius

About Stefano Grondona

Stefano Grondona, born in Genoa in 1958, is a renowned Italian classical guitarist whose career is marked by a deep commitment to the art of guitar playing and its rich history. Grondona's journey began under the tutelage of esteemed guitarists Sergio Notaro, Oscar Ghiglia, and even the legendary Andrés Segovia, who counted Grondona among his favorite students. His extensive concert tours and recordings have solidified his place as a leading figure in the international guitar scene.

Grondona is not just a performer but also a dedicated scholar and educator. He formed the guitar ensemble Nova Lira Orfeo XXI in 2002, inspired by the Barcelona music society Lira Orfeo, founded by Miguel Llobet. His passion for historical guitar music has led him to explore and perform on rare and historical guitars, offering audiences a unique and authentic experience.

In addition to his performing career, Grondona is a professor of guitar at the State Conservatory of Vicenza and has given masterclasses at prestigious institutions worldwide. His discography is vast and varied, featuring works by composers such as Bach, Sor, and Falla, as well as his own transcriptions and arrangements. Grondona's recordings are celebrated for their technical virtuosity and deep musical insight, making him a favorite among classical guitar enthusiasts.