Posted by parallel

With great pleasure I discovered the guitarist Kaori Muraji this weekend. She is a Japanese lady born in 1978 who has signed an exclusive contract with Decca Music – so others have recognized her worth.

Having been taught the classical guitar by Len Williams, father of John, I have been following guitar music and players for a long time. I think John Williams is still probably the best in the world, although near the end of his reign. Another Englishman, David Russell, is probably the heir apparent.

There is a small handful of other guitarists who are in the same league. Interestingly, as it takes a lot of finger strength to be really good, several are female. Apart from Sharon Isbin, whose interpretations are not my favorite, I like Ana Vidovic.

I really liked Ms. Muraji‘s playing: she is a breath of fresh air. Being very pretty helps.
It seems she plays a range of music from classical and guitar standards like the “Concerto de Aranguez” through “Recuerdos de la Alhambra” where her tremolo is near perfect for much of the piece. It is very difficult to get the sound that even, plucking with different fingers.

Several of her pieces are available on YouTube (search Kaori Muraji) where you can also hear her play a modern piece “A Song of Early Spring,” “Here There and Everywhere” and a close-harmony version of “Over the Rainbow” that I like.