Sonata Romántica

Manuel Ponce (1882–1948) was one of the most important composers to contribute to the classical guitar repertoire, writing many of his greatest works at the instigation and encouragement of Andrés Segovia. The Sonata Romántica (1928–1930), subtitled "Hommage à Schubert," is a four-movement sonata in the Romantic style that Segovia popularized worldwide. The work is a sophisticated blend of Mexican folk elements and Central European Romanticism: the opening Allegro moderato's lyrical themes, the deeply felt Andante, the playful Scherzo, and the driving Finale make it one of the most complete sonatas in the guitar literature. Ponce dedicated the work to Segovia who premiered it.