Francisco Tarrega Biography - A Very Quick Guide

Francisco Tárrega (1852–1909) was born in Vila-real, Spain, the son of two housekeepers who worked near the San Pascual sanctuary. An early accident damaged his eyesight, leading his father to encourage him toward music in case he became blind. Tárrega’s first lessons were with Eugeni Ruiz, a blind musician, and later with another blind guitarist, Manuel González, who introduced him to the instrument and to the craft of performing in public.

In 1862 the guitarist Julián Arcas heard the young Tárrega play and recommended further study in Barcelona. Tárrega briefly pursued informal work as a café musician before returning home. He later held a position as pianist at the Burriana Casino while developing his skills as a guitarist. With support from a local patron he studied at the Madrid Conservatory, where the composer Arrieta encouraged him to focus entirely on the guitar. Tárrega married María Rizo in 1881 and began a successful performing career with tours in Spain, France and Britain.

During his mature years, Tárrega received support from Conxa Martínez, who provided him with a home in Barcelona. There he composed many of his most famous works, including Recuerdos de la Alhambra, Capricho Árabe, Danza Mora and numerous studies and preludes. Dissatisfied with the tone produced by long nails, he adopted his characteristic flesh-playing technique, which became a hallmark of the modern classical guitar school.

Tárrega continued to tour widely until he suffered a stroke in 1906. Although he partially recovered, his health and finances declined. Friends organised benefit concerts to support him during his final years. He died in Barcelona on 15 December 1909, leaving a foundational body of work for the classical guitar.