Agustín Barrios Mangoré

Agustín Barrios Mangoré, born Agustín Pío Barrios, was a Paraguayan virtuoso classical guitarist and composer, celebrated as one of the greatest performers and most prolific composers for the guitar. Born in 1885 in San Juan Bautista de las Misiones, Paraguay, Barrios began his musical journey at a young age, blending his deep love for music with his cultural heritage. His compositions, which include over 300 works, span a variety of styles, from folk and imitative to religious, reflecting his rich artistic vision and technical mastery. Barrios' career spanned over four decades, during which he toured extensively across South and Central America, earning him the title "Paganini of the Guitar from the jungles of Paraguay." Though his work was largely unknown internationally for several decades after his death in 1944, his legacy was revived in the 1970s, solidifying his place as a central figure in the world of classical guitar. Barrios' music continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, showcasing his innovative compositions and deep passion for Latin American folk music.