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SABICAS 
 Sabicas (Agustín Castellón Campos) was a Flamenco guitarist
who was born in 1912 in Pamplona, Spain and died in 1990 in New York.
Sabicas began playing guitar at the age of 4 and made his performing
debut 2 years later. His early style was influenced by Ramón Montoya.
Extensive collaboration with important cantaores (male Flamenco singers)
of the period helped him develop his unique personal style.
Leaving Spain in 1936 during the Spanish Civil War, he went into exile
in South America with bailaora (dancer) Carmen Amaya. The two toured
together several times. Sabicas later settled in New York City in the
United States. He did not return to his native Spain until 1967.
Sabicas was instrumental in the introduction of Flamenco to audiences
outside of Spain and the Spanish-speaking world. He was probably best
known for his technical skills: Blazingly fast picados (scales), fast
arpeggios, quality composition for the many forms of flamenco, and infallible
rhythm, which was critical if playing with a dancer. Also, he was considered
to have perfect pitch. Sabicas was a tremendous genius of his day, not
only with technique, but with major contributions, rendering Flamenco
unimaginable and giving new tools and possibilities for the solo instrument.
He brought this art to concert halls and major theaters where all classes
can enjoy.
His influence: Notable contemporary players such as Paco de Lucía,
Tomatito, Juan Manuel Cañizares, El Viejín, Vicente Amigo,
Gerardo Nuñez and many more claim large influence from Sabicas'
music.
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