solo-aguado-en

Allegretto, number 1 of the collection, is a joyful melody with repeated patterns that require a few excursions to the higher positions. A cheerful approach makes it a nice piece to play.

Fortunately, Allegro is much easier to play than we are used with Aguado’s pieces. This piece originates from the Encyclopedie Pittoresque from 1895. The piece shows a few joyful motifs.

Andante, number 4 of the collection, is a quiet piece in which the ornaments require special attention.

Andante, number 9 of the collection, is a friendly theme with clearly classical features. Despite the moderate tempo, an accurate approach is required, particularly with the ornaments, the rests and the dotted16th/32th constructions that occur often. Take care that the flow of the piece remains despite the variations in patterns.

Contredanse, number 2 of the collection, is a lively peasant dance that is not quite easy to play as a consequence of the brisk tempo required. A few ornaments require special attention. In the piece a middle section in E major is framed by a theme and a Da Capo.

Contredanse, number 3 of the collection, is a charming peasant dance in a moderate tempo. The original score contained deliberate instructions for the usage of strings, so I reconstructed them.

Contredanse, number 7 of the collection, is much less complicated than the one under number 2 of this composition. Play it with a pointy approach and pay attention to the rests that enhance the effects. In that case a slightly broader approach in the A major section provides a welcome contrast.

Contredanse, number 8 of the collection, is a joyful piece with a clear structure, corner section in E minor, the tiny middle section in E major. Correct play of the rests is important for the pointy sound of the piece.

Valse, number 5 of the collection, is a light-hearted waltz with a few playful ornaments. It is important to separate essentials form side-issues (i.e. the ornaments) and to pay careful attention to the position changes.

Valse, number 6 of the collection, is the shortest piece within Op. 14. Small and yet graceful. Pay attention to the contrasts and the slight change of atmosphere in the one-line C major middle section.