Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco (1895-1968) was an Italian composer and pianist, renowned for his prolific output and significant contribution to the guitar repertoire. Born in Florence, Italy, into a Jewish family, his early musical education was under the guidance of renowned teachers, including Ildebrando Pizzetti. His compositions gained him early recognition, leading to a flourishing career in Italy. However, the rise of Fascism and the implementation of racial laws forced Castelnuovo-Tedesco to emigrate to the United States in 1939, where he would go on to make a profound impact on the music scene, particularly in Hollywood, composing scores for numerous films.

Despite his success in film, Castelnuovo-Tedesco's heart lay in classical music, especially compositions for the guitar, which have earned him a revered place in the classical guitar repertoire. His works, such as "Les Guitares Bien Tempérées", "Appunti", and the touching narrative suite "Platero y yo", based on the prose of Juan Ramón Jiménez, showcase his lyrical style, melodic inventiveness, and deep understanding of the guitar's capabilities. Beyond the guitar, his output includes a wide range of compositions, including orchestral works, piano pieces, and songs. Castelnuovo-Tedesco's music, characterized by its expressive melodies and rich harmonies, reflects his deep commitment to his Jewish heritage while also embracing the musical cultures of his adopted country. His legacy lives on through his extensive catalogue of compositions, which continue to enchant musicians and audiences alike.

Genres

Classical Guitar

Early Modern Classical

Impressionism

Related Artists

Joaquín Rodrigo

Heitor Villa-Lobos

Isaac Albéniz

Andrés Segovia

Agustín Barrios Mangoré

Enrique Granados

Federico Moreno Torroba

Antonio José

Ottorino Respighi

Francisco Tárrega

Luigi Boccherini

Manuel de Falla

Latest Release

Castelnuovo-Tedesco: Fuga Elegiaca, Op. 210a: II. Fuga

Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco•

Eden Stell Guitar Duo

Single - Released September 6, 2024