José Ferrer (1835–1916) Sheet Music for Classical Guitar – PDF sheet music or tab with video performances and lessons.
Short Biography: José Ferrer, also known as Joseph Ferrer, was a Catalan guitarist, composer, and teacher born in Torroella de Montgrí, Spain. He studied guitar first with his father and later with José Brocá in Barcelona. Ferrer spent many years in Paris as a performer and teacher before returning to Barcelona, where he taught at the Conservatori del Liceu. He composed extensively for the guitar, particularly solo and duo works characterized by the lyrical, elegant salon style of the late 19th century.
Sheet Music Editions
Most editions include both a notation-only edition with fingering and a tab edition in the same pdf.
- José Ferrer (1835–1916)
- Cantilène Espagnole No.1, Op.41 by Ferrer, Grade 4
- Ejercicio No. 2 by José Ferrer – Grade 3
- Ejercicio No.9 by Ferrer, Grade 3, Lesson, Free Sheet Music
- Ejercicio in E Minor by Ferrer, Grade 4
Video Sample
Frequently Asked Questions About José Ferrer
Who was José Ferrer?
José Ferrer Esteve (1835–1916), also known as Josep Ferrer i Esteve, was a Catalan classical guitarist, composer, and teacher. Born in Torroella de Montgrí, Spain, he became active as a performer and teacher in Barcelona and Paris.
Who did José Ferrer study guitar with?
Ferrer first learned guitar from his father and later studied with the Spanish guitarist and composer José Brocá in Barcelona.
What kind of music did José Ferrer compose?
Ferrer composed primarily for classical guitar, including solo works, duets, and instructional music. Much of his music reflects the lyrical and accessible salon style popular during the late 19th century.
Did José Ferrer teach classical guitar?
Yes. Ferrer worked as a guitar teacher in both Paris and Barcelona and taught at the Conservatori del Liceu in Barcelona.
What are some notable works by José Ferrer?
Ferrer wrote numerous works for guitar, including dances, character pieces, fantasies, and works for two guitars. His compositions are generally melodic and idiomatic for the instrument and remain useful repertoire for classical guitarists. For a good example of his easier intermediate works, check out his Cantilène Espagnole No.1, Op.41 by Ferrer, Grade 4.
Is José Ferrer’s music in the public domain?
Yes. Ferrer died in 1916, so his original compositions are in the public domain. However, modern editions, arrangements, and recordings can still be protected by copyright.
Is José Ferrer’s music suitable for beginner classical guitarists?
Some of Ferrer’s shorter pieces are approachable for developing guitarists, while other works require intermediate or advanced technique. His generally idiomatic guitar writing makes his music particularly useful for students looking for Romantic-era repertoire.
