Composer Biography: Roland Dyens (1955-2016)

Roland Dyens (1955-2016) was a French classical guitarist and composer. Dyens was known for his immense ability to improvise, a lost skill in many modern musicians of today.

Dyens studied guitar under Alberto Ponce at the École Normale de Musique of Paris. While there, he was also awarded the 1st prize of Harmony, Counterpoint and Analysis for his compositions.

He went on to make a career performing and composing. Many of his pieces are staples of the guitar repertoire today, including his arrangements of jazz standards for guitar. This highlights his affinity for jazz and improvisation outside of his obvious interest in classical guitar. It is said that his compositions were often improvisations that he later wrote down.

Dyens was also a Professor at the National Conservatory of Music in Paris.

Notable compositions

Tango en Skäi

Libra Sonatine

Felicidade

Saudade No. 3

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