This is a level 7 arrangement that focuses on complex slurs. In this case, complex slurs involve plucking a given string and then playing several notes with only the left hand. The result is a series of quick legato notes. Players should be careful to maintain a steady pulse and allow the slurred notes their full value. Have the players avoid the common pitfall of playing the slurred notes too quickly. There are a very limited number of places in which players must play in 2nd and 5th positions. These are advanced skills reserved for future levels, however, students may be taught these few measures by rote. As always, tone, dynamics, and expression should be a primary focus.
Historical Notes: Isaac Albéniz was a child prodigy who began touring at the age of nine. His early years are a subject of urban legend in which he traveled out on his own as a young child. In truth, his father was a Spanish customs agent who traveled with Isaac and his sister Clementina. At a young age, Albéniz played many concerts in Europe, Cuba, and the US. Albéniz wrote much of his music for piano, but a lot of his popularity came for transcriptions done for guitar.