Spanish composer Fernando Sor (1778-1839) enjoyed a productive musical life, composing in the major genres of the day: ballet, opera, chamber music, brass band, symphony, and solo song. His broad experiences imbued his guitar music with a sophistication unmatched by his guitarist-composer contemporaries.
Fernando Sor, Etude Op. 31 No. 1 | Grace Seil Frary
Study Tips
Implied Chords
This solo is in C major and, not surprisingly, has many C chords. Most of these chords are arpeggiated. The smoothest sound will be achieved by holding down the entire implied C chord. For example, the two measures after the pickup note are derived from a C chord. Beginning at the pickup, hold a C chord and simply pluck the notes, allowing them to ring together and produce a rich harmony.
Implied C Chords
Bring Out the Melody
The melody is in the uppermost voice, ndicated by upward-pointing stems. Play the melody louder than the bass accompaniment.
Triple Meter Feel
This piece is reminiscent of the minuet, a stately ballroom dance in triple meter. Thus, it flows best in a moderate tempo with a gentle downbeat accent.
Fernando Sor, Etude Op. 31 No. 1 | Grace Seil Frary
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Study Tips
Implied Chords
Bring Out the Melody
Triple Meter Feel
