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The Last Rose of Summer
op. 125, no. 2
Composer: Mauro Giuliani (1781 - 1829)
Mauro Giuseppe Sergio Pantaleo Giuliani (27 July 1781 – 8 May 1829) was an Italian guitarist, cellist, singer, and composer. He was a leading guitar virtuoso of the early 19th century.
Mauro Giuliani’s arrangement of The Last Rose of Summer is a delicate and expressive guitar setting of a beloved Irish folk melody. Composed as part of his Opus 125, a collection titled Sei Arie Nazionali Irlandesi (Six Irish National Airs), this piece reflects Giuliani’s fascination with the lyrical charm of traditional songs and his mastery of classical guitar technique.
The work unfolds as a theme and variations, beginning with a graceful presentation of the melody in G major, rendered in a clear, classical texture. Giuliani then explores the tune through subtle transformations: a minor-key variation introduces a touch of melancholy, followed by a return to major with a more animated character. The final variation features a lively Alberti bass pattern, adding rhythmic vitality while preserving the song’s tender spirit.
Though modest in length, this piece offers a rich study in phrasing, tone control, and expressive nuance—making it a favorite among early intermediate guitarists and a charming recital choice. Giuliani’s setting honors the original song’s emotional depth while showcasing the guitar’s lyrical capabilities.
This piece is one of the selected pieces for Level 8 of the Royal Conservatory of Music exams in Canada.
op. 125, no. 2
Composer: Mauro Giuliani (1781 - 1829)
Mauro Giuseppe Sergio Pantaleo Giuliani (27 July 1781 – 8 May 1829) was an Italian guitarist, cellist, singer, and composer. He was a leading guitar virtuoso of the early 19th century.
Mauro Giuliani’s arrangement of The Last Rose of Summer is a delicate and expressive guitar setting of a beloved Irish folk melody. Composed as part of his Opus 125, a collection titled Sei Arie Nazionali Irlandesi (Six Irish National Airs), this piece reflects Giuliani’s fascination with the lyrical charm of traditional songs and his mastery of classical guitar technique.
The work unfolds as a theme and variations, beginning with a graceful presentation of the melody in G major, rendered in a clear, classical texture. Giuliani then explores the tune through subtle transformations: a minor-key variation introduces a touch of melancholy, followed by a return to major with a more animated character. The final variation features a lively Alberti bass pattern, adding rhythmic vitality while preserving the song’s tender spirit.
Though modest in length, this piece offers a rich study in phrasing, tone control, and expressive nuance—making it a favorite among early intermediate guitarists and a charming recital choice. Giuliani’s setting honors the original song’s emotional depth while showcasing the guitar’s lyrical capabilities.
This piece is one of the selected pieces for Level 8 of the Royal Conservatory of Music exams in Canada.