Introduction

Matteo Carcassi was one of the eminent guitarists of the early part of the 19th century. Although his fame was somewhat eclipsed by that of his contemporary Ferdinando Carulli he still nonetheless rose to become one of the prominent classical guitarists and composers of all time.

This tutorial covers the tenth of his twenty five Etudes or Studies for guitar. As usual Carcassi was able to combine beautiful melodies with technical studies which is why so much of his music still features in the classical guitar repertoire almost two hundred years after they were composed. I break this etude down and explain how to play it without needing tabs or sheet music. Near the end and throughout the tutorial I also give valuable advice, insights and tips for classical guitar technique and music interpretation.

Performing Etude No. 10 demands a refined technique and a keen sense of musicality. The guitarist must maintain fluidity and clarity in the arpeggios while articulating the melodic line with lyrical beauty. This etude also emphasizes dynamic control and phrasing, encouraging the performer to explore the subtleties of expression and tone production.

Etude No. 10 serves not only as a technical exercise but also as a charming concert piece that highlights the guitar’s versatility. Carcassi’s ability to combine instructional value with aesthetic appeal ensures that this etude remains a favorite among students and professional guitarists alike. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Carcassi’s genius in crafting music that educates while delighting the listener.

Musical Style

Matteo Carcassi’s musical style is characterized by its blend of technical precision and melodic elegance, making his compositions essential in the classical guitar repertoire. Carcassi’s works often feature clear, structured forms with an emphasis on right-hand arpeggios, scales, and left-hand finger independence. His music combines the charm and expressiveness of the Romantic era with pedagogical clarity, aiming to develop both the technical skills and musicality of guitarists. Carcassi’s “25 Etudes, Op. 60” are particularly revered for their ability to address various technical challenges while remaining musically engaging. His compositions have a lyrical quality and often incorporate elements of folk and classical traditions.

Notable Pieces

Five notable pieces by Matteo Carcassi:

• Etude No. 1, Op. 60

• Etude No. 3, Op. 60 (available as a course here on NBN Guitar)

• Etude No. 7, Op. 60

• Etude No. 10, Op. 60

• Caprice No. 24

Let your fingers fly!

Josh