á Sarasate is a chamber music project focused on re-imagining works connected to the legendary Spanish violinist Pablo de Sarasate through fiery new arrangements for the guitar and violin. Born in Pamplona in 1844, Pablo de Sarasate was a virtuoso violinist and composer whose incredible talents were known around the world. Drawn to his agility, expression, and flair, composers such as Camille Saint-Saens, Edouard Lalo, William Potstock, and Antonin Dvorak dedicated violin showpieces to him. Sarasate's own compositions often contain dazzling virtuosity and a vibrant Spanish character. The essence of the guitar is loudly present in many of these works. It is almost as if they were intended as violin solos with guitar accompaniment, but at the time guitar was not yet a concert instrument. It remained in the quiet corners of parlors and salons, and the pieces were developed for orchestra or piano. Zachary has arranged these works for violin and guitar duo, bringing these guitaristic elements to light and giving new life to Sarasate's influence. A selection from this project, the Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso by Saint-Saens, can be listened via the video below.

 

The entire program will be performed live in New York City in the Summer of 2026.