[Guitar] Famous classical guitarists of the world. Recommended guitarists.
A comprehensive introduction to the world’s famous classical guitarists!
From the greats who laid the foundation of classical guitar to distinctive players known for their unconventional performances, we’ve picked a wide range.
Compared to genres like rock or blues, the classical guitar world is often said to have many exceptionally skilled guitarists.
This time, we’ve selected world-famous guitarists with truly top-tier abilities!
We’re also introducing lesser-known guitarists who enjoy strong support abroad but are still relatively unknown in Japan.
If you love classical guitar, this is a must-see!
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[Guitar] Famous classical guitarists of the world. Recommended guitarists (21–30)
Tango de la CaderaManuel Barrueco
Classical guitarist Manuel Barrueco, who won the Concert Artists Guild Award in 1974.
Born in Cuba, he attended the Esteban Salas Conservatory, one of the country’s renowned music schools, but later became a political refugee and emigrated to the United States.
Perhaps because of these hardships, his tone carries a sense of weight and depth.
He continues to perform at the forefront as a classical guitarist today, so be sure to check him out!
Grand OvertureJason Vieaux
Jason Vieaux, known as a “soulful classical guitarist.” He began studying music at age eight in New York and later entered the Cleveland Institute of Music—what you might call an elite musician’s path.
“Soulful classical guitar” can be hard to picture, especially if you’re new to classical guitar.
But if you compare recordings, you’ll notice he projects more power than many other classical guitarists.
He’s a rare type of classical guitarist, so be sure to check him out!
Collection of SonatasRoberto Aussel
An excerpt from the sonata collection by Domenico Scarlatti, a leading composer of the late Baroque period.
Although the original pieces were written for harpsichord, they are often performed on guitar as well.
Performed by Roberto Aussel from Argentina.
Bach: From the Sonata No. 2 for Solo Violin, Movement II: FugueTatyana Ryzhkova
Tatyana Ryzhkova is a guitarist from Belarus.
The piece she is performing is the second movement, Fugue, from Johann Sebastian Bach’s Sonata No.
2 in A minor for solo violin, BWV 1003.
The footage is from Weimar, Germany.
Tarrega: Capricho ÁrabeIsabel Martínez
Spanish classical guitarist Isabel Martínez began studying classical guitar at the age of seven and is active as both a performer and educator.
While teaching at the San Javier Conservatory, she gives concerts and master classes in Spain and abroad.
Grammy Award winner David Russell has praised her for her “magnificent playing,” and Manuel Barrueco has called her “one of the finest guitarists.” Known for her intellectual technique and warm tone, she has earned high acclaim on YouTube for her performances of Francisco Tárrega’s works.
She is a recommended artist for anyone wishing to explore the beauty of the classical guitar.
Rodrigo: Pastoral for Guitar & Prayer and DanceFilomena Moretti
Born in Italy in 1973, guitarist Filomena Moretti is a performer with a distinguished career in the world of classical guitar.
After graduating with highest honors from the Sassari Conservatory, she went on to win multiple international competitions.
In 1993, she studied at the Accademia Chigiana in Siena on a scholarship.
Invited by renowned musical institutions throughout Italy and across Europe, she has enjoyed a flourishing concert career.
She released the complete solo guitar works of Joaquín Rodrigo, and in 1998 she received the “Golden Guitar” award for her recordings of the Spanish guitarist Fernando Sor—often called the “Beethoven of the guitar.” Moretti’s performances captivate audiences with their high level of technique and expressive depth.
She is an artist highly recommended for anyone wishing to discover the allure of the classical guitar.
Bach: Cello Suite No. 1 in G major, BWV 1007John Feeley
John Feeley, Ireland’s renowned classical guitarist, was born in 1955.
By the age of 17, he was already recognized as “one of the finest electric guitarists in Europe.” After moving to the United States and studying under leading teachers, he also distinguished himself as an educator.
In 2006, he earned a doctorate in Music (Performance).
He has released albums such as e-motion, in winter light, and Islands, and is known as an advocate for contemporary Irish music.
Deeply versed in traditional music as well, he has performed with The Chieftains, Ireland’s famed traditional ensemble.
His delicate playing—praised as “technique in the service of poetry”—is essential listening for classical guitar enthusiasts.
Villa-Lobos: Mazurka-ChoroNora Buschmann
Nora Buschmann is one of the most important international soloists in today’s classical guitar world.
Born in Berlin, she trained at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music and further honed her craft at the Cologne University of Music.
She has won numerous prizes in competitions at home and abroad, and in 2005 she served as a visiting professor in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Her albums Live in Bern, Suite Orientale, and Apassionata Latina have received high acclaim from critics.
She delves deeply into Greek traditional music and Latin American guitar music, pursuing a unique approach to exploring new musical territories.
She is a highly recommended guitarist for those seeking to expand the possibilities of the classical guitar.
SunburstAndrew York
Sunburst, a signature piece by American guitarist and composer Andrew York.
It became widely known after John Williams recorded it.
A live performance by York himself.
He also gained recognition as a member of the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet.
AsturiasSharon Isbin
Sharon Isbin is a Grammy Award–winning classical guitarist.
She is also known for founding the guitar department at the Juilliard School.
While women often tend to be at a disadvantage on the guitar due to generally having less grip strength than men, she is an exception.
Even compared to male guitarists, her technique is superb.
She has released numerous pieces that are close to flamenco—melodies that lie somewhere between flamenco and classical.
Be sure to check her out!