INTRODUCTION

“El Noi de la Mare,” arranged by Miguel Llobet, is a beautiful Catalan folk song that has been skillfully adapted for classical guitar. Miguel Llobet, a prominent Spanish guitarist and composer, is renowned for his exquisite arrangements and original compositions that highlight the expressive potential of the guitar. His works often draw from traditional Spanish and Catalan melodies, and “El Noi de la Mare” is a perfect example of his ability to transform simple folk tunes into profound musical experiences.

“El Noi de la Mare,” which translates to “The Son of the Virgin,” is a tender lullaby with a gentle, flowing melody. In Llobet’s arrangement, the piece retains its simplicity and emotional depth while being enriched with the harmonic and textural possibilities of the classical guitar. The arrangement features delicate arpeggios and subtle dynamic changes that require the guitarist to play with both technical precision and expressive sensitivity.

Performing “El Noi de la Mare” on classical guitar involves a nuanced touch and a deep understanding of the piece’s lyrical qualities. The guitarist must convey the song’s intimate and soothing character, bringing out the beauty of the melody while maintaining clarity in the harmonic accompaniment.

“El Noi de la Mare” is a testament to Llobet’s genius in adapting folk music for the classical guitar. Its combination of melodic simplicity and harmonic richness continues to captivate audiences, making it a cherished piece in the classical guitar repertoire. Through this arrangement, Llobet’s work ensures that the timeless charm of Catalan folk music remains alive and resonant.

The piece itself is in the key of D major and it isn’t overly difficult but it does contain a couple of interesting fingerings here and there. It is written in Binary form and could be played with the following in mind:

• Keep the melody separated

• Use a light rest stroke in the right-hand

• Ensure your fingers remain close to the strings

• Use preparation wherever possible in the left-hand

Musical Style

Miguel Llobet’s musical style is distinguished by its blend of traditional Spanish and Catalan melodies with sophisticated classical guitar techniques. His compositions and arrangements often feature intricate fingerpicking, expressive dynamics, and rich harmonies, showcasing the guitar’s lyrical and expressive potential. Llobet’s works are noted for their delicate phrasing and attention to detail, requiring a high level of technical proficiency and interpretive sensitivity from the performer. He had a deep appreciation for the folk music of his native Catalonia, and his ability to transform these simple tunes into complex and evocative pieces has made his music enduringly popular. Llobet’s contributions have significantly enriched the classical guitar repertoire, making him a pivotal figure in the instrument’s history.

Notable Pieces

Five notable pieces by Miguel Llobet:

• Cançó del Lladre (available as a course here on NBN Guitar)

• El Testament d’Amèlia (available as a course here on NBN Guitar)

• La Filla del Marxant

• La Nit de Nadal

• Lo Fill del Rei

Let your fingers fly!

Josh

Course Instructor

Joshua Rogers Author

A teacher and lover of all things guitar!