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 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, 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. "The finest technique around has got to be Sabicas, the Flamenco player," famed guitarist Chet Atkins told Guitar Player Magazine in March 1972.

Sabicas was a tremendous genius of his day, not only with technique, but with major contributions, playing Flamenco previously 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.