Manuel Barrueco, renowned for his virtuosity and expressive playing, delivers a captivating exploration of Spanish classical guitar repertoire with his album "Manuel Barrueco Plays De Falla, Ponce & Rodrigo." Released in 1987 under the Warner Classics label, this album showcases Barrueco's mastery of the guitar through a selection of works by three iconic Spanish composers.
The album opens with Manuel Barrueco's own arrangements of Manuel de Falla's "El sombrero de tres picos," transporting the listener to the vibrant streets of Andalusia with pieces like "Mediodia," "Danza del molinero," "Farruca," "Danza del corregidor," and "Danza de la molinera." These arrangements highlight Barrueco's ability to capture the essence of Spanish folk music and dance within the classical guitar framework.
The album continues with Manuel María Ponce's "Sonatina meridional," a three-movement work that evokes the landscapes and traditions of southern Spain. Barrueco's performance brings out the charm and rhythmic vitality of this piece, making it a standout on the album.
Joaquín Rodrigo, known for his iconic "Concierto de Aranjuez," is represented here by "Invocación y danza," "Homenaje 'Pour le Tombeau de Claude Debussy'," and the three pieces from "Tres piezas españolas" – "Fandango," "Passacaglia," and "Zapateado." These works showcase Rodrigo's unique blend of Spanish folk elements and classical structure, and Barrueco's interpretations are both technically impressive and musically engaging.
With a total duration of 43 minutes, this album is a concise yet comprehensive journey through the Spanish classical guitar repertoire. Manuel Barrueco's playing is marked by his distinctive tone, precision, and deep understanding of the music, making this album a delight for both casual listeners and classical guitar enthusiasts.
Vinylscout