Tárrega - Capricho árabe (transcribed for cello solo)

Francisco Tárrega’s Capricho árabe is one of the best-loved works of the classical guitar repertoire. Subtitled Serenata, the piece reflects the late nineteenth-century Spanish fascination with Moorish color, lyrical ornamentation, and evocative atmosphere. Its flowing melodies, flexible rubato, and gentle dance-like character have made it a favorite among guitarists and audiences alike.

This transcription adapts Capricho árabe for solo cello, bringing Tárrega’s lyrical writing into the instrument’s warm singing register. The arrangement preserves the work’s intimate character while reimagining its guitar textures through idiomatic cello writing.

Expressive, compact, and highly appealing, this transcription is well suited for recitals, lessons, church or wedding preludes, and short character-piece programming. It offers cellists a beautiful Spanish miniature that combines melodic charm with opportunities for color, phrasing, and tasteful rubato.

ASTA level: 3