Leyenda

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Leyenda (Asturias) is a work of classical music written by the Spanish composer Isaac Albéniz. Originally written for piano in G minor, it was first published in Barcelona, by Juan Bta. Pujol & Co., in 1892 as the opening "Preludio" of a three-movement set entitled Chants d' Espagne, op. 23. The name Asturias was given to it by German publisher Hofmeister, who included it into Suite Espagnole's "complete version" at 1911. This music is not influenced by northern Asturia county music though, being strongly influenced by andalusian traditions.

It was Francisco Tárrega who transcribed it for guitar and put it in its most recognizable key, E minor, and subsequently made popular by Andres Segovia. Although not originally conceived as such it found a place as the prelude of the suite "Suite Española" (Op. 47). It noted for the delicate, intricate melody of its middle section and abrupt dynamic changes.

[edit] Playing the Piece (Piano and Guitar)

This piece is among those which take initial skill, and prolonged practice. The first and third sections are almost identical and are of fast tempo. The notes themselves are not hard to master in these sections, save the sudden chord leaps that appear throughout the sections. The best way to master these is to start out slow and speed up, using a metronome. Make sure that the melody of the left hand is not drowned out by the beat of the right.

The middle part can be very emotional and soulful if played properly. The term 'rubato' denotes the execution of personal dynamics that the player may insert as he sees fit. This part should not be played fast, as the change in pace is what creates the diversity of the piece, which is its beauty.

[edit] Trivia

Trivia sections are discouraged under Wikipedia guidelines.
The article could be improved by integrating relevant items and removing inappropriate ones.

The beginning of Spanish Caravan by The Doors contains the main theme (from the album Waiting for the Sun).
The main theme is quoted by Iron Maiden in their song To Tame a Land (around 4:09 into the track) (from the album Piece of Mind).
The french film "Les Patriotes" (1994) plays Albeniz' Asturia
Roger McGuinn composed an arrangement of the song "Eight Miles High" on his 12-string guitar based on the main theme
The car brand Lexus use this piece in one of their commercials (2006).
It was performed during Nicolas Sarkozy's inauguration as President of France on May 16th, 2007, because his wife at the time, born Cécilia Ciganer-Albéniz, is the great-granddaughter of the composer, Isaac Albéniz.
The fiddle group, Barrage, does a version of this song on the violin. [1] Here is a link to a video of them performing the song.
Vanessa-Mae covers this piece on violin, with classical guitar and backing percussion and rock rhythm.
Asturias is as matter of fact used in one of the commercial for a danish bank, Den Danske Bank, covered by a harp and beatbox. Here's a link to the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2N4RDp5q4Y