SANCTUARY, Classical Guitar

Manuel Ponce's latest release, SANCTUARY, Classical Guitar, is a masterful collection of classical guitar pieces that showcases his exceptional skill and artistry. Released on 14 December 2024 via La Cupula Music, this 47-minute album features 16 exquisite tracks that transport listeners to a world of elegance and refinement.

With a duration of 47 minutes, SANCTUARY, Classical Guitar is a substantial and satisfying listen, offering a diverse range of compositions that highlight Manuel Ponce's technical prowess and emotional depth. The album's tracklist is a testament to his versatility, featuring intricate suites, beautiful preludes, and soulful melodies that demonstrate his mastery of the classical guitar.

Manuel Ponce's music is deeply rooted in the classical tradition, with influences from Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and 20th-century styles. His compositions are characterized by their complexity, nuance, and expressiveness, making him a highly respected figure in the world of classical guitar.

SANCTUARY, Classical Guitar is not only a showcase for Manuel Ponce's own compositions but also features works by other renowned composers, including Visée, Tárrega, and Silva. This album is a must-listen for fans of classical guitar music, offering a unique and captivating listening experience that will appeal to both newcomers and seasoned aficionados.

Throughout the album, Manuel Ponce's playing is marked by its precision, passion, and sensitivity, bringing each piece to life with his characteristic flair and dedication. With SANCTUARY, Classical Guitar, Manuel Ponce has created a truly exceptional album that will delight and inspire listeners, cementing his reputation as one of the leading classical guitarists of his generation.

Manuel María Ponce Cuéllar, affectionately known as Manuel M. Ponce, stands as a towering figure in Mexican music, celebrated for his role in bridging the gap between classical music and traditional Mexican folklore. Born in 1882, Ponce's musical journey began in his native Mexico, but his education took him to Italy and Germany, where he honed his craft. Recognised early on as a child prodigy, Ponce's compositions are deeply rooted in the harmonies and forms of traditional Mexican songs, making him a pivotal figure in Mexican musical nationalism.

Ponce's legacy is vast and varied, encompassing a wide range of works from popular songs and guitar pieces to orchestral compositions. His guitar sonatas, composed between 1923 and 1929 and dedicated to the legendary Andrés Segovia, are particularly notable and constitute the first collection of their kind. Beyond his compositions, Ponce's work as a music educator and scholar has left an indelible mark on Mexican music, elevating the status of guitar music and preserving the rich tapestry of Mexican musical heritage. His influence extends beyond Mexico, with his pedagogical principles and dedication to music education earning him recognition in the Philippines as well. Ponce's contributions continue to inspire and educate, making him a beloved figure in the world of music.