Exploring the Contribution of Visually Impaired Musicians to the Evolution of Spanish Guitar
Abstract:
Blind musicians have played a significant yet often overlooked role in shaping the evolution of Spanish guitar. Historically, Spain has witnessed a rich tradition of visually impaired musicians making remarkable contributions to its musical landscape.
The aim of this research project, is to explore how fundamental the contribution of visually impaired musicians was in the critical moment of the evolution of our instrument and how their contribution influenced the technique, the approach to music. The conference will be preceded by a short performance of musical pieces written by blind musicians.
Outputs:
- Series of lectures at universities and conservatories.
- Next conferences: Guitar Foundation of America – Conference (17-22 June Fullerton (CA))
- Series of videos on practice ‘rituals’ aimed at enhancing sensory substitution, suitable for both blind and sighted individuals.
- Two guitars crafted in collaboration with Gabriele Lodi, designed to augment vibrotactile feedback and facilitate sensory cross-modal enhancement of listening through touch.
- An article co-authored with Gabriele Lodi discussing the evolution of the Spanish guitar, particularly focusing on the contributions of visually impaired musicians.
Artistic Reseach
This research is closely linked to my artistic practice, where I explore sensory substitution through the creation of a series of ‘rituals’—practices designed to enhance tactile sensory perception. To achieve this, I am collaborating with Guitar Maker Gabriele Lodi to craft a series of instruments. These instruments are conceptualized to augment the vibrotactile feedback of the instrument and introduce impedances that can facilitate a sensory cross-modal enhancement of listening through touch.