Joseph Ehrenpreis - Mauro Giuliani, 18 Études progressives, Op. 51

Mauro Giuliani (July 27, 1781 – May 8, 1828) was one of the greatest virtuosi of the guitar in the 19th century. He established himself as a cellist, composer, and guitarist, even partaking in the premier of Beethoven’s Symphony #7 in 1813. Although the use of the guitar in mainstream classical music was relatively novel at the time, he associated with many of the most important musical figures of the era: Beethoven, Weber, Moscheles, Mayseder, Hummel, Paganini, and Rossini. Giuliani defined a new role for the guitar in the context of European music.

Giuliani’s career is divided into three periods, according to the countries in which he lived: Italy (1781-1806), Vienna (1806-1819), and a return to Italy (1819-1829). Some of his most impressive accomplishments include performing one of his own concerti conducted by Carl Maria von Weber and participating in the premiere of Beethoven’s seventh symphony, presumably playing the other instrument that he excelled at: the cello. For many reasons, not least of which was the domination of opera – and by extension a popular taste for the grand and the spectacular – many talented Italian guitarists emigrated. These included Moretti, Carulli, Molino, Carcassi, Zani de Ferranti, and Regondi, as well as Giuliani. While Paris was the destination of many Italian guitarists, Giuliani chose Vienna, which had a profound impact on his career and compositional style.


Lezioni Progressive Op. 51 (18 Progressive Studies for the guitar) were likely composed in Giuliani's middle Vienna period. They explore a wide variety of textures, utilizing the natural resonance of the guitar, as well as exploiting the technical capabilities of the fretboard. Beginning in C Major, in first position, the studies progressively morph into dances and stylized miniatures of the time and the past.

Joseph Ehrenpreis performs on an antique “Vienna” romantic guitar made in 1921 by Hermann Hauser I. It is ascribed “Ehrenpreis” by Kathrin and Hermann Hauser III.

Recorded and mastered by Graham Rosen and Maxwell Porter of Enharmonic Records in Cleveland, Ohio.

Editing by Maya Lola Caulfield

It is Joseph’s hope that music and sound will help to promote peace and solidarity in the world.

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