Fantaisie, Op. 7, Op. 7
by Fernando Sor
Published in London around 1822, Sor's Op. 7 Fantaisie is one of the grandest solo works of the Classical guitar repertoire. It opens with a searching slow introduction before unfolding into a set of variations and a brilliant finale, drawing on operatic and dance idioms. Sor was the foremost guitar composer and pedagogue of his era; this work showcases both his technical demands and his deeply vocal approach to melody, earning him the title 'the Beethoven of the guitar'.
Editions
Tecla Editions
Brian Jeffery, 1982
Facsimile of the original London print with editorial commentary by Brian Jeffery. The preferred scholarly source.
Chanterelle
Matanya Ophee, 1990
Practical performing edition with modern notation, fingering, and introductory notes on historical performance practice.
Schott
Karl Scheit, 1963
Long-standard conservatory edition; some minor editorial liberties but readable and well-laid-out.