The Three Most Important Flamenco Guitar Innovators

Born into a family of gypsy cattle traders in 1880

, Ramon Montoya is credited with elevating the Flamenco Guitar to foreground status. Although like countless guitarists after him Montoya began his career accompanying singers and dancers, he eventually began performing solo. Thus ending the guitar's purely accompanying role. Ironically, it was Montoya's nephew - Carlos Montoya - who was most responsible for focusing International attention on the solo Flamenco Guitar. From the 20's through the 50's he composed and performed in virtually every country. Even filling the Houston astrodome! And basing himself in New York.

Today it's Carlos - not Ramon - who is the most famous Montoya. Curiously, Ramon didn't like his nephews style, and offered him no encouragement. Thus Carlos Montoya's first guitar teacher was the village barber. But Ramon Montoya retains the distinction of being Flamenco Guitar's first solo performer.

Influenced by Ramon Montoya, but an amazing innovator in his own right - Sabicas - noted particularly for his infallible rhythm, collaborated extensively with Male singers.(Cantaores) Leaving Spain in 1936 with the outbreak of civil war, Sabicas toured South America with the dancer, Carmen Amaya. Sabicas, like Carlos Montoya, was a major force in presenting Solo Flamenco outside of Spain.Said to have perfect pitch, Sabicas impressed with blazing picados(runs),fast arpeggios, and quality compositions. The late Guitar great Chet Atkins once commented in an interview: "The best technique around has got to be Sabicas, the Flamenco player."

Seville's bars and taverns were the first concert halls for the child prodigy - Nino Ricardo. Renowned as the best player of his day, Ricardo made a significant contribution to the evolution of the Flamenco Guitar. Many of his elaborate and rhythmically remarkable compositions were developed during his "bar wars" years. Nino had a unique playing style and tone, owing to upward curving fingernails. Sadly, liver failure claimed Nino Ricardo at the ae of 68.

Of the many fine guitarists who have inherited the traditions of Flamencos' "Founding Fathers" - one of the most noteworthy is Santiago Cortez. Not for blazing runs or other technical "flash" - but for his unique ability to respect tradition while innovating. And more particularly, for his eclectic taste as a composer and performer. Santiago seamlessly blends elements of Jazz, Rock, Pop, Classical, Folk, Celtic, Reggae and World music, into breath-taking compositions that are instantly familiar, but never derivative. With his unique "Flamenco Fusion", Santiago is honoring and expanding the legacy of the Montoyas, Sabicas, and Nino Ricardo.

The Three Most Important Flamenco Guitar Innovators

By: maya martinez

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