Iberian Strings

Exploring Spanish Repertoire and the Influences it Has Inspired

Iberian Strings explores the expressive sound world of the Iberian Peninsula through the unique dialogue between violin and guitar. The programme is rooted in the musical traditions of Spain and extends to works by composers influenced by its distinctive rhythms, colours and expressive language.

At its core are works by Manuel de Falla, Pablo de Sarasate and Isaac Albéniz, whose music embodies the richness and diversity of Spanish musical identity. Composers shaped by Spanish traditions and aesthetics, such as Astor Piazzolla, whose works reflect the global resonance of Iberian musical heritage appear alongside them.

Through this repertoire, the concert traces a musical journey in which Spanish folklore, dance rhythms and lyrical expression interact with broader stylistic influences, revealing the enduring impact of Spain’s musical language across time and geography.

Short Biographies

Daniela Guillén García – violin

Spanish violinist Daniela Guillén García completed both her undergraduate and Master’s degrees at the Royal College of Music in London, supported by the Albert Cooper Music Charitable Trust Scholarship and the Scholarships - Comunidad de Madrid. She has performed at major venues including the Royal Albert Hall, Royal Opera House and Barbican Centre in London and Teatro Real and the National Music Auditorium in Madrid, and collaborates with ensembles such as the Royal Opera House and the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra. Daniela is a Performing Artist for D’Addario Orchestral and performs on a Gagliano-family violin generously loaned by Florian Leonhard Fine Violins.

Zoe Barnett – guitar

British guitarist Zoe Barnett began playing the guitar at the age of four and has developed a distinctive artistic voice recognised for its sensitivity and expressive depth. She was selected as an International Guitar Foundation Young Artist in 2022 and has performed internationally across Europe and Asia in venues such as Wigmore Hall, Beijing Concert Hall and Kings Place. Zoe is active in chamber music and interdisciplinary collaborations and is a D’Addario Artist performing on a guitar by luthier Nick Branwell.