Jeff Knapp

Musical Inspirations and Favorite Composers

My performances include several estudes by writer-performers from the first half of the nineteenth century, who defined the guitar's earliest techniques and ornamentations: Fernando Sors, Matteo Carcassi and Dianesio Aguado. There is a transcription of a Bach Prelude (BWV999), which many pianists know...possibly scored for the lute originally.

I enjoy a Chopin transcription arranged for guitar by his contemporary Francisco Taregga. Tarrega is considered the "father of modern technique", employing the "rest stroke" which accents the melody with a stronger sounding theme.

Some favorites include "miniatures" by Miguel Llobbet from the Spanish (Catalan) region, during the 20th century's first three decades. Also a waltz by Augustin Barrios of Mexico from the same time period.

I often play a "Juapunga" taken from one of the two hundred plus dance patterns which have emerged from South America.

From France, I am inspired by the Sarabande by the impressionist-writer Francois Poulenc, which was written for the famous Ida Presti (of the well known duet Presti and Lagoya).

My audiences appreciate the Mediterranean and South American atmosphere which is evoked by my concerts.