Joaquín Rodrigo

Spanish Classical Composer and Virtuoso Pianist

Joaquín Rodrigo was a distinguished Spanish composer and virtuoso pianist, born on November 22, 1901, in Sagunto, Valencia, Spain. Despite being blinded by diphtheria at the age of three, Rodrigo pursued a career in music with remarkable success. He is best known for his compositions for guitar and orchestra, particularly the "Concierto de Aranjuez," which has become one of the most iconic pieces in the classical guitar repertoire. This concerto was inspired by the gardens at Palacio Real de Aranjuez and premiered in 1940. It beautifully blends traditional Spanish folk music elements with a classical structure.