The guitar complements the voice in a number of ways. First, it is a harmonic instrument and therefore, like the piano, can present a melody within a rich harmonic framework. Secondly, because of the wide technical capacity of the Classical Guitar, it allows that framework or accompaniment to be performed as a homophonic or contrapuntal texture.

The songs that are presented were originally conceived to be accompanied by a keyboard or small chamber ensemble. I have chosen songs where the accompaniment lies within the register of the guitar. These songs that have been realised are beautifully crafted by composers who were masters of their art. I hope that they will add a new performance dimension to the current repertoire for guitar.

Bobby Shaftoe