Romanze is an all Level 4 piece by Hungarian composer and virtuoso guitarist, Johann Mertz. There are two primary technical considerations in this piece. First, parts one and two will be playing i and m together in the accompaniment sections and it is very important that these notes (often thirds) ring out simultaneously. Second, the students playing part three will be reading bass notes on strings 5 and 6. It might be beneficial to have the students learn the two-octave e minor scale from GuitarCurriculum.com. As always, good tone is of the utmost importance as well as accent and dynamic contrast.
Historical/Cultural Context: Johann Kaspar Mertz was a Hungarian composer and virtuoso guitarist who lived from 1806-1856. His music is quintessential romantic repertoire for every classical guitarist. His most famous works come from his opus 13 entitled “Bardenklange”. Have the students listen to various performs play his exciting repertoire such as “Elegie,” “Gondeliera,” “Tarantelle” etc…