Introduction

This beautiful hidden piece by the congenial Francisco Tárrega is an enchanting yet lesser-known piece by the illustrious maestro of guitar and guitar composition.

“Marieta ‘Mazurka’” by Francisco Tárrega is a charming piece that exemplifies the elegance and sophistication of the mazurka dance form, transposed into the realm of classical guitar. Francisco Tárrega, often hailed as the father of modern classical guitar, composed this piece to showcase the guitar’s expressive potential and technical versatility. His works are renowned for blending Romantic expressiveness with intricate fingerstyle techniques, and “Marieta ‘Mazurka’” is no exception.

The mazurka is a traditional Polish dance in triple meter, characterized by its lively tempo and accentuation of the second or third beat. Tárrega’s adaptation of the mazurka for guitar infuses this lively dance with a Spanish flair, reflecting his deep understanding of both folk and classical traditions. “Marieta ‘Mazurka’” begins with a lyrical melody that is both graceful and poignant, weaving through a series of elegant arpeggios and dynamic variations.

“Marieta ‘Mazurka’” is a testament to Tárrega’s genius in creating music that is both technically demanding and artistically rewarding. Its blend of rhythmic vitality and melodic beauty makes it a favorite among guitarists and audiences alike, highlighting the timeless appeal of Tárrega’s contributions to the classical guitar repertoire.

• The piece is in ternary form (A B A) starting out in A minor before a key change to the tonic major and then returning to the opening stanza.

• Watch for arrastre, double ligados, & artificial harmonics.

Definitely a worthy piece to add to your collection.

Musical Style

Francisco Tárrega’s musical style is characterized by its fusion of Romantic expressiveness and Spanish folk elements. His compositions often feature lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and intricate fingerstyle techniques, showcasing both technical prowess and emotional depth. Tárrega’s works frequently include arpeggios, tremolos, and dynamic contrasts, emphasizing the guitar’s capabilities as a solo instrument. His pieces reflect a deep understanding of the guitar’s expressive potential, making them essential studies for both technique and musicality. Tárrega’s influence on the classical guitar repertoire is profound, as he established foundational techniques and expanded the instrument’s possibilities, inspiring generations of guitarists.

Notable Pieces

Five notable pieces by Francisco Tárrega:

• Adelita

• Capricho Árabe

• Gran Vals

• Lágrima

• Recuerdos de la Alhambra

All of these pieces are available as standalone courses, or as part of the ‘Travel with Tarrega’ collection of pieces exclusive to NBN Guitar.

Let your fingers fly!

Josh

Course Instructor

Joshua Rogers Author

A teacher and lover of all things guitar!