Spirit/Wind – Classical Guitar

One of the places where I find significant creative and prayerful expression is in my relationship to the classical guitar—and yes, it is a relationship. I’ve been passionate about the guitar since I first laid my hands on my father’s inexpensive “Hijos de Vicente Tatay” Spanish model he brought home after a summer of missionary work in Puerto Rico. I was about ten years old, and since that time I have never ceased to be fascinated by and in love with the guitar. In college, I earned a music performance degree in classical guitar at Catholic University in Washington, DC. Those were the days!

Several years ago, at the urging of my good friend Kevin Hassett, I purchased a handmade 1985 J. Marzal “Conservatorio” model from Valencia, Spain. Marzal learned his craft in the famed Barcelona shop of Master Luthier Jose’ Ramirez. The back and the sides of the guitar are Indian Rosewood and the top is Red Cedar. Of all the guitars I have owned in my life, none compare to the warm and dynamic tones of this instrument.

I wrote a piece entitled “Spirit/Wind” and submitted it for my senior recital and degree at Catholic University (1976). It captures for me the significant transition I was undergoing in my faith journey at that time, hence the title. Not too long ago, I worked it up and recorded it on my Logic Pro 8 set up. I added a string ensemble track to give it a more atmospheric feel (at least that’s what I’d like to think).

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