Fascinating Works by François de Fossa | STAGE+
Renowned international guitar virtuoso, Alice Artzt, eloquently performs a brilliant selection of variations, passacaglias & chaconnes for solo guitar by noted composer François de Fossa. These fascinating works by De Fossa, a key figure in the Classical guitar world, display complex emotions, and captivating harmonies, that will resonate with listeners of all musical tastes.
François de Fossa (1775–1849) was a French guitarist and composer whose works for solo guitar are celebrated for their technical brilliance, inventive musical textures, and sophisticated treatment of classical forms. While de Fossa is most renowned for his chamber music—particularly his trios Op. 18 and his role in preserving and copying Boccherini’s guitar quintets—his solo guitar repertoire is increasingly recognized for its artistry and historical importance.
Signature Features of de Fossa's Guitar Music
His solo works, including variations, passacaglias, and chaconnes, exemplify the refined classical style of the early 19th century, blending elegance with expressive depth. These pieces often feature syncopated rhythms and dissonant pedal points, unexpected dynamic contrasts and adventurous modulations. Detailed, idiomatic writing for the guitar, showcasing intimate knowledge of the instrument’s capabilities and sonorities, and use of dialogue-like textures that create the impression of multiple voices or instruments, make his solo pieces unusually rich and vibrant.
Historical Context and Influence
De Fossa was a contemporary and friend of other leading guitarists, such as Dionisio Aguado, whose influential guitar method de Fossa helped to write and publish in France. He was dubbed the "Haydn of the Guitar" by admirers due to his sophisticated and tasteful use of classical forms. Though an army officer by profession, de Fossa composed a substantial body of guitar music, balancing his artistic pursuits with military service and travel—including a notable period in Mexico. His works demonstrate a command of form and structure, reflecting his exposure to the music of Haydn, Mozart, and Boccherini (whose guitar quintets he transcribed).
Recital recordings reveal De Fossa's exceptional command over the instrument, evidenced in his virtuosic handling of form and use of inventive melodic content. His works present an alluring blend of rhythmic complexity and melodic simplicity, serving as an irresistible invitation to an exploration of the Romantic guitar music universe.
Alice Artzt, one of the most esteemed guitarists of our time, brings her unique expressivity to De Fossa's pieces, imbuing them with a deep sense of authenticity and utmost respect for their historical contexts. Playing with an inimitable warmth and precision, Artzt's interpretation of De Fossa’s music fully encapsulates the spirit and the legacy of this masterful composer.
From the compelling progressions of his variations, the entrancing hypnotic quality of his passacaglias, to the intricate patterns of his chaconnes, all facets of De Fossa's compositional prowess are thoroughly showcased in this collection.
Whether you're a long-time admirer of classical guitar or newly introduced to the genre, this treasured performance by Alice Artzt of François de Fossa’s ingenious collections promises an unmissable musical journey. Tune in to STAGE+ and let the enchanting strains of these captivating compositions wash over you.