Album Notes

One of the few disciples of Francisco Tárrega, Daniel Fortea was born at Benlloch, Castellon de la Plana, Spain, April 28, 1878 and died there March 5, 1953. He commenced the study of guitar at an early age with Tarrega and eventually became a popular concert artist appearing in Madrid, Barcelona and other important cities in Spain. He was a prolific composer and published his own works soon establishing the 'Biblioteca Fortea.'

America Martinez Serrano, former Doctor of Guitar at the Conservatorio Superior, Sevilla, Spain is one of the last surviving pupils of Daniel Fortea and the mentor to guitarist David Malmberg.

In 2004 David returned to Spain in an effort to gather manuscripts of Fortea’s works for a recording project. He visited America Martinez, (now in her 80’s) and explained his desire to gain access to Fortea’s library. (This library is for the most part unavailable today.) She produced for David out of her own personal files the original works of Daniel Fortea. David then spent the next month going through these gems receiving personal instruction from Dona Martinez on the music.

Thus was born ‘The Fortea Project,’ 19 original pieces written by Daniel Fortea and performed by David Malmberg. This is probably the first compilation of Daniel Fortea music in the United States today.

Fortea, very much a romanticist, created beautiful music for the guitar. Mr. Malmberg is proud to offer this collection of music to honor the legacy of Fortea and America Martinez Serrano.


"Congratulations on an exquisite recording."
Biblioteca Fortea
Madrid