Isaac Albéniz

Cantos de España op. 232

Cantos de España, Op. 232, is a suite of five piano pieces by Spanish composer Isaac Albéniz. The work was inspired by Spain itself, particularly its Asturian folklore and its idiomatic musical traditions. These traditions include castanet-like rhythms derived from spirited dances (ritmo de danza); passionate, declarative melodies in slow, song-like sections (coplas); and exotic harmonies taken from Gypsy modalities. Dr. Olga Llano Kuehl-White studied, performed, and researched the repertoire with legendary Spanish pianist Alicia de Larrocha at the Academia Marshall in Barcelona and privately over a period of 30 years. The current edition includes fingering, redistributions, and other valuable insights provided by Larrocha. Front matter includes a short biography of the composer, editorial and performance considerations, an analysis of each piece, and a glossary of Spanish terms.