Canarios by Gaspar Sanz (1640-1710) By Valérie Duchâteau – Gaspar Sanz was one of the great masters of the baroque guitar, himself inspired by the Italian masters of his time. He is responsible for three major works, written between 1674 and 1697, comprising 90 original works. A major figure in Spanish music, his work influenced Joaquín Rodrigo (1901-1999) when he began composing his Fantasy for a Gentleman (1954). Canarios is undoubtedly Gaspar Sanz's most famous piece. The rhythmic division reveals a subdivision into eighth notes of the type 3 + 3 + 2 + 2 + 2, i.e. the juxtaposition of two measures in 6/8 and another in 3/4. This perception of the beat is essential for a correct interpretation. From a technical point of view, take good care of the ascending and descending ties. From measure 42, things "get going" and the piece takes a more harmonic turn with the sweep of the six strings, like a succession of rasgueados.