Born in Slovenia, Karmen Stendler is an acclaimed classical guitarist based in Germany, who is performing solo and chamber music concerts around the globe. She has graduated with two master’s degrees after studying at renowned music institutions in Slovenia, Germany and Spain, and she is currently doing a solo artist diploma (Konzertexamen) with Prof. Müller-Pering in Weimar.

She is a multiple prizewinner at national as well as international competitions, which include Enrico Mercatali Guitar Competition in Gorizia (Italy), José Tomás Competition in Petrer (Spain), Andrés Segovia Competition in Pescara (Italy), International Guitar Competition Krško (Slovenia), and multiple national Slovenian competitions. In 2012, at the age of 20, she received a Prešeren Award from the Academy of Music in Ljubljana for her exceptional artistic achievements in the previous year.

Karmen Stendler

"El Testament D'Amelia" by Miguel Llobet is an arrangement of a popular Catalan song based on an anonymous poem from the 14th century. The award-winning guitarist Karmen Stendler offers an excellent interpretation of this piece and gives you great tips and advice on how to practice and perform it, including how to practice the harmonics, how to keep good dynamics, and much more.

El Testament D'Amelia

As you go past the basic levels of guitar playing, you probably find yourself struggling to decide what to play next. What are some pieces that will help you improve your skills and, at the same time, are enjoyable to play? Outstanding Slovenian guitarist Karmen Stendler suggests these five Fernando Sor studies, which she has selected carefully to form a meaningful collection. These studies will definitely give you and your audience a lot to enjoy musically, and Karmen’s tips and comments will turn them into great opportunities to refine your guitar-playing skills.   

Five Fernando Sor Studies

Join Karmen Stendler as she performs and teaches two delightful pieces by Renaissance composer John Dowland, who composed these pieces originally for the lute. "Preludium" is a short and melancholic piece that acts very well as a quick warm-up or a concert opening piece. "The Right Honourable, the Lady Clifton's Spirit" is a playful galliard, a popular Renaissance dance. Enjoy Karmen’s detailed and organized teaching, offering valuable background information about each piece before delving into the ins and outs of playing them.  