Julio Reyes, guitarist

The Sacramento Guitar Society had the pleasure of a visit by the excellent performer Julio Reyes. In the first moments of "Confesión - romanza" by Agustín Barrios Mangoré, we were drawn in by effortless, expressive playing. Throughout it and a second Barrios composition, "Vals No. 3", Reyes' use of rubato, color and dynamic changes brought the heart and soul of the music to life. Reyes followed the Barrios with an original composition "My Little Ballerina” written to his wife and introduced with an anecdote. A talented composer as well! He may have taken inspiration from the great Barrios, and he knows an enormous amount about that pivotal figure in the guitar's history. The verbal introductions to all three pieces made the music all the more enjoyable to hear. One guitarist in our group said afterward of Julio Reyes, "Unbelievable!!! World class, I'd say."

Daniel Roest, President/Artistic Director, Sacramento Guitar Society