[2021] | Sergio Assad 24 Studies Work

In this article, we will dissect the structure, technical demands, musical philosophy, and performance practice of this crucial addition to the guitar repertoire. By the time Sergio Assad began composing his 24 studies (completed in various stages, with a definitive publication by Editions Henry Lemoine), the guitar world already had Heitor Villa-Lobos’s 12 Estudos (1929) and Leo Brouwer’s Estudios Sencillos (1960s). Villa-Lobos conquered the concert etude; Brouwer conquered the pedagogical etude.

Assad’s goal was different. He wanted to synthesize the technical rigor of the European tradition with the rhythmic complexity and harmonic color of Brazilian popular music (Choro, Samba, Bossa Nova) and jazz. Furthermore, Assad is a virtuoso performer. As such, these studies are written by a guitarist for guitarists. There are no pianistic "impossible" stretches; instead, there are uniquely idiomatic challenges that feel organic under the fingers but sound revolutionary to the audience. sergio assad 24 studies work

For the student who masters even six of these studies, the reward is immense. The right hand learns to dance; the left hand learns to sing; and the audience hears not a "study," but a story. To engage with the Sergio Assad 24 studies work is to enter a long-term relationship. You will return to Study No. 1 ten years after your first attempt and find new technical secrets hidden in the fingering. You will discover that Study No. 16 is actually a lullaby for a modern city. In this article, we will dissect the structure,