Fernando Sor, Study No.16, Op.60 for classical guitar

Fernando Sor’s complete studies Op.60 is one of the most famous etude collections. Each study covers a different learning concept. It's a very musical collection, especially when compared to other composers for the guitar from around the same time. It can be hard to initially see the intent behind each etude. The primary goal though of the collection as a whole I believe is to promote clean legato technique whilst playing through various harmonies/textures. Sheet Music

The studies range from grade 1 to grade 7. However the majority of the pieces are around the grade 4 to 5 level.

This etude is in the key of G major. The intent seems primarily to be lesson on legato playing, co-ordinating the right hand fingers and holding chords for their full duration. There is a tricky section in bars - that features left hand slurring, however this is the only 'decoration' in the study and I would suggest that this be a mini lesson practised at a slow tempo.

Fernando Sor found fame as a virtuoso performer and composer, creating a great interest in the guitar (Spanish style). To help others learn to play he created music for instructional purposes, organising them into Opus' which move through levels of musical complexity and technical difficulty. Whilst the studies are mainly looked at for pedagogical reasons, many of them do stand alone as useful repertoire pieces.

If this has been of use then please consider being a general supporter via patreon.