Joaquin Rodrigo

A preeminent composer of the twentieth century and an important national figure in Spain, Rodrigo writes music with luscious melodies and jazz-inflected string harmonies. His most famous work is the resplendent Concierto de Aranjuez, written for orchestra and nylon-string guitar. Many have performed the piece, including jazz stars Miles Davis and Gil Evans, who titled their collaboration Sketches of Spain. Rodrigo's guitar concertos -- performed by artists such as Pepe Romero and Julian Bream -- have a Flamenco feel and bear a marked influence from Rodrigo's friend, classical guitarist Andres Segovia.