“Aristocrat of the Guitar” for two Auckland concerts
"A major artist with remarkable musicianship and a world of technique... simply and consistently - - awesome." [Los
Angeles Times]
Manuel Barrueco is internationally recognised as a leading figure in the guitar world. His artistry has been
consistently described as that of a superb instrumentalist and an elegant musician, possessing a seductive sound and
uncommon lyrical gifts.
On Thursday 24 and Friday 25 June, Manuel Barrueco makes his New Zealand début with the Auckland Philharmonia performing
Vivaldi’s Guitar Concerto, renowned for its almost vocal beauty, and Rodrigo’s masterpiece, Concierto de Aranjuez, one
of the most frequently played concertos of all time.
These two concerts, the eighth in the orchestra’s 2004 Vero Premier Series, are conducted by Miguel Harth-Bedoya, and
also feature The Farewell, a new piece by the Auckland Philharmonia’s Composer-in-Residence Anthony Young, and
Beethoven’s great Fifth Symphony.
Manuel Barrueco’s busy concert schedule takes him all over the world, and his concerts consistently receive high praise.
His numerous recordings have also been critically acclaimed with accolades such as “Best Recording” in Classic CD
Magazine for Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez with conductor Plácido Domingo and the Philharmonia Orchestra. His latest
CD, Nylon & Steel, is a collection of duos with guitar greats Al Di Meola, Steve Morse (Deep Purple) and Andy Summers (The Police),
demonstrating his versatility and imaginative programming. Manuel Barrueco’s commitment to contemporary music and to the
expansion of the guitar repertoire has led to collaborations with distinguished composers including Toru Takemitsu,
Roberto Sierra, Steven Stucky and Arvo Pärt.
Thursday 24 & Friday 25 June – 8pm, Auckland Town Hall Conductor: Miguel Harth-Bedoya; Soloist: Manuel Barrueco (classical guitar)
Programme: Anthony Young: The Farewell (Auckland Philharmonia commission) Vivaldi: Guitar Concerto in D Rodrigo:
Concierto de Aranjuez Beethoven: Symphony No.5 in C minor
Adult tickets from $20; concessions available (service fees may apply). Phone the Ticketek Orchestra Hotline on 307
5139.
The Auckland Philharmonia gratefully acknowledges Vero, the major sponsor of this series. The Auckland Philharmonia
receives major funding from Creative New Zealand and a major grant from Auckland City.