Every weekday at 10:30am I play what I call a "guitar pick." It's a work featuring the guitar. It can be as a solo instrument, in a chamber setting or with orchestra. On Monday I presented a performance of what it widely considered the international anthem of guitarists - Recuerdos de la Alhambra (Memories of the Alhambra) by Francisco Tarrega. Composed in 1896, Tarrega made generous use of the picking effect known as "tremolo" throughout the piece. While the thumb picks the bass line, the other digits on the picking hand quickly alternate on the melody. Novice listeners to the piece often conclude that the work is being played by two guitarists. This composition holds a special place in my heart as it was part of the opening music to our wedding, which was played expertly by Louisville guitarist Dale Grider.

Other guitar picks from this week were:

Francisco Tarraga - Recuerdos de la Alhambra - Valerie Hartzell
JS Bach - Partita BWV 1002 - Michael Long
Maurice Ravel - Pavane - Julian Bream and John Williams
Federico Moreno Torroba - Sonatina - Eduardo Fernandez
Giuseppe Torelli - Concerto for guitar and violin - Karl Scheit, guitar

My ukulele pick this week is a cover by Eva Walsh, of a Black Eyed Peas song. Trust me.