Folkloric and popular elements in classical guitar performance: Spain, Argentina, Chile and Ecuador

Through the use of distinctive techniques and conventions, folkloric and popular music can provide a broad palette of sonic colours that are not commonly available in classical guitar performance. This study seeks to examine how the comprehension of technical and musical aspects that derive from folkloric and popular guitar styles can enhance the performance of classical guitar music that has been inspired by these traditions. The focus will be on the guitaristic musical traditions from Spain, Chile, Argentina and Ecuador. These will be examined through different methodologies, including the learning of particular techniques, interviews with folkloric performers, but primarily by gaining familiarity with these traditional styles. When approaching a written guitar piece which intends to represent one of these genres, to make listeners aware of their most distinctive features and transmit their particular flavour, classical guitar performers must come in contact with the folkloric sources. In order to assimilate the techniques, rhythmic devices, effects and accentuations, one needs direct exposure to the musical elements, to experience them and incorporate them into performance. All these seemingly little idiomatic elements used in folkloric contexts can be projected into a noticeable change in the expression and character of the music when applying these nuances to the interpretation of folkloric-inspired classical guitar pieces. This MA project comprises three forms of work: the thesis text itself, three solo guitar performances that demonstrate the folkloric elements applied to a classical guitar repertoire, and a project website documenting the research and linked practical examples.