Introduction

Antonio Lauro is easily one of the most famous of the South American classical guitar composers of the 20th century. His works are often full of cultural flavour and for the most part they are challenging to play often bordering on virtuosic.

This particular piece is ‘The Maracaibo Native’ or perhaps dare I say ‘Maracaibo-ite’? Maracaibo is an area in northwest Venezuela whose name belongs not only to the city and municipality but also to a lake. It is said to have come from a local chief named Mara who died resisting the Spanish conquest. Other historians suggest that the name comes from the local indigenous language and that it means ‘The place where serpents abound’. “El Marabino” is part of Lauro’s series of Venezuelan waltzes, celebrated for their rhythmic vitality, melodic charm, and harmonic richness.

“El Marabino,” composed by Antonio Lauro, is a vibrant and expressive piece that has earned its place as a favorite in the classical guitar repertoire. Antonio Lauro, a renowned Venezuelan composer and guitarist, dedicated his life to enriching the classical guitar literature with works that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of Venezuela. His compositions are known for their ability to capture the essence of Venezuelan folk music while showcasing the technical and expressive capabilities of the guitar.

Performing “El Marabino” on classical guitar requires a refined sense of rhythm and expressive nuance. The guitarist must adeptly handle the piece’s intricate fingerwork, syncopated rhythms, and dynamic contrasts to bring out its spirited and lyrical qualities. Lauro’s skillful use of arpeggios, harmonic passages, and melodic lines highlights the guitar’s versatility and the emotional depth of the music.

“El Marabino” stands as a testament to Lauro’s genius in blending traditional Venezuelan musical elements with classical guitar techniques. Its lively rhythms, captivating melodies, and cultural authenticity make it a rewarding piece to play. Here are a few tips:

• Avoid over emphasising non-melodic notes

• Keep the rhythm strong and steady

• Use rest strokes to bring out the melody

• The piece is in ternary ABA form with each section repeated therefore try to vary the tone with each repetition to avoid monotony

Musical Style

Antonio Lauro’s musical style is a captivating fusion of Venezuelan folk traditions and classical guitar techniques. His compositions are renowned for their rhythmic vitality, melodic richness, and harmonic sophistication. Lauro masterfully incorporates traditional Venezuelan dance forms, such as the waltz and joropo, into his works, imbuing them with a distinct national character. His music often features intricate fingerpicking patterns, syncopated rhythms, and dynamic contrasts, demanding both technical proficiency and expressive depth from the performer. Lauro’s ability to blend folk elements with classical structures has made his compositions enduring staples in the classical guitar repertoire.

Notable Pieces

Five notable pieces by Antonio Lauro:

• Carora

• Maria Luisa

• Venezuelan Waltz No. 2 “Andreina” (available as a course here on NBN Guitar)

• Venezuelan Waltz No. 3 “Natalia” (available as a course here on NBN Guitar)

• Venezuelan Waltz No. 4 (Yacambú)

Let your fingers fly!

Josh

Course Instructor

Joshua Rogers Author

A teacher and lover of all things guitar!