'Dances' is the second release for Chandos by the Aquarelle Guitar Quartet. The percussive capability of the guitar lends itself extremely well to the rhythmic energies of many dance forms. This collection of dances – appearing in various guises – highlights the versatility of the classical guitar, and the manner in which the instrument can be used to interpret such far-ranging compositions.

The music the Quartet has chosen for this album represents an internationally diverse and chronologically varied spectrum of music. Classics such as Boccherini’s Introduction and Fandango sit alongside original arrangements of the music of Piazzolla and Biréli Lagrène and, most notably, a new commission from the British composer and saxophonist Andy Scott.

Scott’s work, Seven Dances and ‘No Looking Back’, is a collection of inspired movements that show off the guitar’s many attributes in imaginative and dynamic ways, drawing on traits of a variety of contemporary musical styles and genres.

Contents:
Egberto Gismonti
1. Baiáo Malandro (Smart Baiáo) for piano and synthesiser
Arranged for guitar quartet by James Jervis.

Eduardo Martin
2. Hasta Alicia Baila (Until Alicia Dances) for guitar quartet

Andy Scott
3-10. Seven Dances and ‘No Looking Back’ (premiere recording)

Luigi Boccherini
11. Introduction and Fandango for guitar and string quartet       
Arranged for guitar quartet by Jeremy Sparks.

Traditional
12. Ajde Dali Znaeš Pametiš Milice (Do You Remember, Milice)
Arranged for two guitars by Vlatko Stefanovski and Miroslav Tadic.
Adapted for guitar quartet by Vasilis Bessas.

Traditional
13. Pajduska
Arranged for two guitars by Vlatko Stefanovski and Miroslav Tadic.
Adapted for guitar quartet by Vasilis Bessas.

Astor Piazzolla
14. La Muerte del Ángel (Death of the Angel) for violin, bandoneón, vibraphone, piano, and double-bass
Arranged for guitar quartet by Michael Baker.

Catriona McKay
15. The Swan ‘LK 243’ for clàrsach, violin, and double-bass
Arranged for guitar quartet by Michael Baker.

Traditional
16. Malagueña Salerosa
Arranged for guitar quartet by Rory Russell.

Traditional
17. Tarantella
Realised for folk ensemble by Inti-Illimani Historico.
Arranged for guitar quartet by Michael Baker.

Biréli Lagrène
18. Made in France for two guitars
Arranged for guitar quartet by Richard Safhill.

Aquarelle Guitar Quartet:
- Michael Baker
- Vasilis Bessas
- James Jervis
- Rory Russell