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tonebase Guitar Course

Domeniconi

Koyunbaba, Op. 19

Taught by renowned guitarist 

Aniello Desiderio

Domeniconi's Koyunbaba is a four-part suite inspired by Turkish music and culture. The title translates to "shepherd father" and is a nod to the pastoral lifestyle of semi-nomadic shepherds, who play a lute-like instrument called a saz. Throughout the piece, Domeniconi incorporates Anatolian motifs, as well as rhythms and ornamentation inspired by the saz. The music has a distinctly Middle Eastern flavor that is both captivating and challenging to play. Aniello is well-known for his interpretation of Koyunbaba and has spent years performing it in some of the world's most renowned concert halls. In this course, he shares his unique insights, allowing you to fully appreciate the depth of this piece. Learn how to create the most incredible atmosphere through dynamics, colors, and phrasing!

  • checkmark icon
    Difficulty: 
    Advanced
  • checkmark icon
    Duration: 
    1
     hours
     hour
All courses on tonebase include subtitles in English and Spanish

Course Syllabus

Introduction

In this introductory module, Aniello Desiderio provides an overview of the origins of Koyunbaba and his own personal relationship with the composer, Carlo Domeniconi. Desiderio recounts the multiple conflicting stories the composer had told him about its origins. He theorizes that there may not be one authentic story, and suggests it should be up to the player to choose their favorite. This section sets the stage for the rest of the video lesson series and provides valuable context for understanding the piece.

I. Moderato

In this lesson, Desiderio delves into the incredible colors and atmosphere of the first movement. He hypothesizes that Koyunbaba could be one of the most atmospheric works ever written for the guitar and explores elements of tempo, rubato, and voice leading. He shares his best practices for bringing out the nuances of this movement and creating a captivating atmosphere.

II. Mosso

In this lesson, Desiderio shares his favorite fingerings for the second movement, and provides helpful tips for playing natural and artificial harmonics. He offers valuable tips for bringing out the beauty of the music and creating mesmerizing atmospheric effects.

III. Cantabile

In this module, Desiderio emphasizes the importance of combining apoyando and tirando for expressive purposes. He offers valuable tips for performing the arpeggio section and explains the importance of recognizing parallel motifs. He also shares his insights about bringing out the unique dynamic character of the movement.

IV. Presto

In this final lesson, Desiderio teaches the fourth and final movement of "Koyunbaba". He shares his approach for building up to the expressive climax of the movement, practicing your right and left hand separately, and on playing the rasgueado section convincingly.

Click here to download the course workbook PDF and see the full syllabus →
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Aniello Desiderio
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Aniello Desiderio

Known for his intricate touch, speed and precision, Aniello Desiderio is regarded as one of the best Italian classical guitarists with countless awards and accomplishments as proof.

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Aniello Desiderio

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