On August 2, 1955, flamenco guitar legend Carlos Montoya demonstrated the power of his hands to a crowd of about 500 at the Berkshire Music Barn.

Flamenco Guitarist at Music Barn

By Milton R. Bass for The Berkshire Eagle

FLAMENCO guitarist Carlos Montoya is a short man to begin with. And when he starts to play his guitar, the rest of his body disappears and all you notice is a pair of hands, hands which produce incredible sounds and rhythms from the strings and body of his instrument.

In a program before 500 appreciative listeners at the Music Barn in Lenox last night, Montoya demonstrated in 18 numbers the wide range of Flamenco melodies and rhythms, from the primordial “Alegrias Rosa” through the “Malaguenas” and the “Tanguillo de Cadiz.”

THIS WAS NO wild evening of guitar slapping, but a tightly controlled, completely poised rendition of music which is associated with the gypsies of Spain. It is the kind of music one listens to around a campfire as the goatskin of wine is passed from hand to hand. The shifting of rhythms and melodic line is based on the long Flamenco tradition, but Montoya has added his special gift to each number. He is able to evoke a sweetness which contrasts vividly with the wildness of the gypsy background.

The man is all hands and mind and artistry and his incredible fingering and speed are as exciting to watch as the music he produces. He chords with both hands in the Flamenco tradition, and melodic line is carried by the left as well as the right hand. His simulation of drums and bugles in a military procession during the “Saeta” was a mastery of control and precision. And in the numbers where rhythms became wild in the gypsy manner, he laid his head square on the instrument and allowed the sheer emotion to carry his hands at breathless speed.

TRIANITA (Mrs. Montoya) demonstrated several Flamenco dances to the accompaniment of the guitar. The lovely dancer was brought back for an encore by the crowd’s gracious response, and even the maestro felt called upon to render “Oh Susannah” Flamenco style as a reward for the “Ole’s” from the audience.

Stephanie Barber introduced Señor Montoya in her native tongue.