Andrés Segovia (1893-1987) is considered to be the father of the
modern classical guitar movement by most modern scholars. Many
feel, that without his efforts, the classical guitar would still be
considered a lowly bar instrument, played only by peasants.
Segovia's quest to elevate the guitar to a prominent position in the
music world, began at the early age of four. Although discouraged by his family
(according to them he should play a "real" instrument), he continued
to pursue his studies of the guitar. Segovia gave his first concert in Spain at the age of sixteen, with his professional debut at the age of twenty in Madrid. His original
program included transcriptions from Tárrega, as well as his own
transcriptions of Bach and others. Many so called "serious"
musicians believed that Segovia would be laughed off of the stage,
because the guitar could not play classical music. In fact, Segovia
astounded the audience. The only problem he had, was that the guitar
could not produce enough sound to fill the hall. Over the coming
years, Segovia would perfect his technique and push luthiers to
experiment with new woods and designs, that could increase the
natural amplification of the guitar. With the advent of Nylon
strings, the guitar could produce more consistent tones, while also
being able to project the sound much farther. Segovia's quest lead him to America in 1928 for his first concert in New York. Again he overwhelmed the audience with his technique and musicianship, and converted more dissenters to the classical guitar. His rousing success in New York led to offers for more appearances in America and Europe, and a trip to the Orient in 1929. Segovia,
and the classical guitar had arrived. As Segovia traveled the world, he and the guitar became more and more popular. Composers such as Heitor Villa-Lobos began to compose original pieces specifically for the guitar. With their dark and
melancholy mixture of dissonance and cello-like phrasing,
Villa-Lobos' compositions in particular, seemed to fit the guitar
perfectly. Segovia had also begun to transpose the masterpieces for
the guitar. In fact his transcription of Bach's Chaconne, has become
one of the most famous and difficult pieces to master. His
transcription makes the Chaconne seem as if Bach originally intended
it to be played on the guitar instead of the violin. Segovia's
repertoire was increasing, as was the guitar's. His goal was
becoming a reality. All that was left was the third and final part
of his mission... to pass on the legacy to a new generation.
Segovia had many students throughout his career. Among the more
famous are Christopher Parkening, John Williams, Elliot Fisk and
Oscar Ghiglia. These students, along with the many others, carry on
Segovia's tradition, while at the same time expanding the classical
guitar's presence, repertoire, and musical boundaries.
Segovia not only taught students himself, he indirectly taught and
influenced thousands and thousands of guitarists world wide. He is
truly the father of the classical guitar.
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