For classical and fingerstyle guitarists, the quest for the perfect etude book is a lifelong journey. We have the foundational works of Fernando Sor (Op. 60), the lyrical precision of Matteo Carcassi (Op. 60), and the revolutionary modernism of Heitor Villa-Lobos (W235). For decades, these three pillars defined technical study.
Tributes: Many of the studies are "tributes" to major Brazilian figures or styles, often indicated by the "-iana" suffix in their titles. Notable examples include:
The Challenge: The accent pattern falls on the second 16th note of every beat (the "partido alto" feel). Your right hand wants to accent beat 1. Assad forces you to accent the "and" of 1. This tiny shift in dynamics turns a boring scale into a dance. sergio assad 24 studies
In an interview with Guitar International, Assad revealed that the idea for the 24 Studies emerged during his teenage years. As a student of the renowned Brazilian guitarist and composer, Antônio Carlos Jobim, Assad was encouraged to create a set of studies that would help him develop his technical skills and musicality. Over the course of several years, Assad worked tirelessly to craft 24 pieces that would push the boundaries of guitar technique and expression.
serve a dual purpose, acting as both a technical manual and a comprehensive survey of Brazilian musical heritage. Each study focuses on distinct musical and technical elements: Rhythmic Exploration Mastering the Fretboard: A Deep Dive into Sergio
For the Player and Listener
The cycle is structured as a series of portraits. Each study is named after a specific Brazilian composer, using an "-iana" suffix to denote the tribute. The collection explores: Brazilian Rhythms : Assad incorporates diverse styles such as (featured in Mignoniana , and various popular dance forms. Composer Portraits 60), and the revolutionary modernism of Heitor Villa-Lobos
The 24 Studies have been performed by many of the world's leading guitarists, each bringing their own interpretation and perspective to the music. Assad himself has recorded the studies, providing a benchmark for performance and interpretation.
Sergio Assad’s 24 Studies are not just exercises; they are a university degree in Brazilian guitar in one volume. Whether you are a conservatory student or a weekend warrior looking to break free from Eurocentric pedagogy, these 24 pieces will change the way you hear the guitar.