Sometimes referred to as the "Father of Modern Guitar," Francisco de Assis Tárrega Eixea, was born in Villareal, Castellon, Spain, November 21, 1852 and died in Barcelona, December 5, 1909. His teacher was a local performer in Villareal by the name of Manuel Gonzales, popularly known as the `blind sailor.' Other teachers followed, Julian Arcas and Damas Tomas. In October, 1874, he entered the Madrid Conservatory and commenced the study of composition where he was eventually awarded first place in composition. After completing his education he settled down to teach at both the Conservatories in Madrid and Barcelona. He has had direct as well as indirect influence on some of the greatest performers of the 20th century; Miguel Llobet, Emilio Pujol, Jose Rey de la Torre and Andres Segovia.
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