«The Divine Giuliani» — Ludwig van Beethoven
Side One
0:03 Le Rossiniane, Op. 119
15:43 Variations on a Theme of Handel, Op. 107
Side Two
22:32 Le Rossiniane, Op. 122
37:52 Six Variations, Op. 7
The above-quoted appellation bestowed by Beethoven upon his contemporary Mauro Giuliani by all evidence refers not only to his virtuosity as a musician but to his considerable genius for composition as well. His abilities in both areas where the guitar is concerned, first brought Giuliani to the attention of Beethoven. He was also proficient on several other musical instruments and was a member of the orchestra under Beethoven’s baton for the first two performances of the Maestro’s Seventh Symphony in Vienna, December 8 and 12,1813.
Born in Bologna in 1781, Mauro Giuliani decided early on to concentrate his musical career upon the guitar. Except for a few basic lessons, he was totally self-taught, a fact that becomes all the more remarkable in light of his recognition, along with