Álvaro Toscano (Córdoba, 1997) is one of the youngest promising talents in Spanish classical guitar today.
His more than twenty international awards, including first prizes at the Andrés Segovia International Guitar Competition, Fernando Sor International Guitar Competition, the Permanent Competition of Musical Youth of Spain, the International Competition City of Guimarães, and the Changsha International Guitar Festival, attest to his artistic quality and showcase his incredible ability to communicate with the audience through music.
On October 22, he performed a concert at the ESMUC sponsored by the Alhambra Guitars Foundation, having won the First Prize at the “Andrés Segovia” International Guitar Competition in La Herradura in 2023.
The Alhambra Guitars Foundation has established a collaboration agreement with ESMUC to promote high-level guitar in its annual concert and masterclass program.
Thanks to this agreement, in 2024, a workshop on guitar acoustics was held, as well as Álvaro Toscano’s concert, which will take place shortly, and a masterclass and concert by Marcin Dylla during the last week of October.
These agreements and collaborations are very important for consolidating the presence of classical guitar in quality environments and organizations while supporting young guitar talents in pursuing an artistic career.
1. As a young guitarist with such a promising career, what does it mean for you to have won the prestigious Andrés Segovia Competition in La Herradura? How has this recognition influenced your career?
Winning the Andrés Segovia Competition in La Herradura has been an important recognition, although I must say that, beyond a few concerts, it hasn’t had a decisive impact on my trajectory. However, something very valuable has been the opportunity to meet new people in the guitar world, and that always enriches. Each experience adds to the journey, but in the end, daily work is what truly makes the difference.
2. The Foundation has shown great support for young talents like you. In what way do you think this kind of support is fundamental to boosting the careers of young musicians on the international scene?
The support of institutions like the Alhambra Foundation is key to the development of classical guitar today. This kind of backing not only provides visibility to young musicians but also contributes fundamentally to the consolidation of their careers. Having this platform is essential for talent to grow and project internationally.
3. On October 22, you will perform at the ESMUC, an institution recognized for excellence in musical training. How do you assess the importance of centers like ESMUC in the development of guitarists and musicians in general?
ESMUC is undoubtedly one of the leading institutions for musical training in Spain. Its team of guitar professors is top-notch, which greatly contributes to the guitar world. Pedagogical figures are essential for student development, and unfortunately, the level of many conservatories does not meet the mark. However, ESMUC exemplifies how an approach to excellence can make a difference.
4. You have a tour in Latin America before your concert in Barcelona. What do you expect from this international experience, and how does bringing your art to different cultures and audiences influence your interpretation as a classical musician?
For me, music makes sense when shared, when there is that cultural exchange with other societies. Taking my music to different cultures is always a process of learning and growth because each country and audience teaches you something new. In Latin America, for example, there is a unique passion for music, and I am sure that this experience will enrich my vision of art in general.
5. For young people aspiring to follow in your footsteps in the world of classical guitar, what advice would you give them about the importance of study and commitment to their instrument?
My main advice would be to work hard, as talent or winning a competition is not enough to build a career. It is essential to always be alert and aware of opportunities, and above all, not to wait for things to come on their own. One must actively seek those opportunities and create their own path. Music is a long-distance race and requires both discipline and creativity to progress. Thinking long-term is the key.
Link of interest: https://www.esmuc.cat/dimarts-toca-esmuc-alvaro-toscano-guitarra-classica/