Roland Dyens
Roland Dyens (19 October 1955 – 29 October 2016) was a celebrated French classical guitarist, composer, and arranger, known for his extraordinary improvisational skills and eclectic musical style. Born in Tunisia, Dyens spent most of his life in Paris, where he studied under the tutelage of Spanish classical guitarist Alberto Ponce and composer Désiré Dondeyne. His unique ability to blend classical music with jazz elements earned him a distinctive place in the world of classical guitar.
Dyens' performances were renowned for their spontaneity; he often began concerts with an improvised piece and crafted his program on the spot, which led a journalist to describe him as having "the hands of a classical musician but the mind of a jazz musician." His repertoire was vast, encompassing works by Rodrigo, Sor, and Villa-Lobos, as well as his own transcriptions of pieces by Chopin and Satie.
Among Dyens' most famous compositions is "Tango en Skaï" (1985), a piece that showcases his flair for incorporating diverse musical influences. Another significant work is "Libra Sonatine" (1986), a three-movement piece reflecting his personal experiences following heart surgery. Throughout his career, Dyens released numerous arrangements and original works, contributing significantly to contemporary guitar repertoire.
Dyens was also a respected educator, holding a teaching position at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique in Paris, succeeding his mentor Alberto Ponce. His contributions to music were recognized with several awards, including the Grand Prix de l'Académie Charles-Cros for his recording of Villa-Lobos' Concerto for Guitar and Small Orchestra.
Roland Dyens' legacy endures through his compositions, recordings, and the impact he had on students and audiences worldwide. He passed away on 29 October 2016, leaving behind a rich and influential body of work.