MAESTRO DE LA GUITARRA ANDINA RAÚL GARCÍA ZARATE

Raúl García Zárate (December 13, 1931 – October 29, 2017, at age 85) was a celebrated Peruvian lawyer, arranger, and concert guitarist, unanimously considered the foremost exponent of Andean and Ayacucho guitar. His self-taught virtuosity and solemn interpretations elevated the traditional music of the Peruvian highlands to the most prestigious academic stages and concert halls in the world. Ayacucho is a land of illustrious Peruvian folk artists. Among them, the most renowned is undoubtedly Raúl García, a Living Cultural Heritage of Peru. This former lawyer, a graduate of San Marcos University, forged an artistic career with dozens of albums and worldwide accolades that attest to his great work as one of the most influential Andean guitarists in the history of music. Without further ado, the country's most renowned Andean guitar concert artist, Raúl García Zárate (81), visits us this week. Ask about his musical legacy and cultural impact. His greatest achievement was breaking down social barriers and cultural prejudices through the traditional guitar. He elevated Andean music, introducing it to Lima and international auditoriums previously reserved strictly for European classical music. His masterful interpretation of "Adiós pueblo de Ayacucho" is considered his masterpiece and the sentimental anthem of his native region. Throughout his career of more than 60 years, he recorded around 40 albums and gave recitals in countries such as France, Germany, Mexico, the United States, Japan, and Argentina. Part of his historical catalog can be heard on platforms such as his official YouTube channel or his Spotify profile. Official Distinctions: Due to his colossal contribution to popular art, the Peruvian State granted him its highest recognitions: Living Cultural Heritage of the Nation by the National Institute of Culture. Magisterial Palms in the Degree of Amauta by the Ministry of Education. Order of the Civil Service of the State in the Degree of Commander.