Kelvan Kueh

In this presentation, I perform Evocación from Suite del Recuerdo by José Luis Merlin while comparing two remarkable instruments — one crafted by Manouk Papazian and the other by Joaquín García.

The Papazian guitar carries with it an interesting historical anecdote. It is recounted that Julian Bream, one of the most celebrated classical guitarists of the 20th century, once approached Manouk Papazian with a request for a guitar at no cost. Papazian, steadfast in his principles and committed to the value of his craftsmanship, respectfully declined. Consequently, Bream never performed on a Papazian instrument, and Papazian never sought the endorsement of celebrated artists, allowing his work to gain recognition purely on its own merit.

This recording offers an opportunity to appreciate the distinct tonal qualities of both guitars — Papazian’s uncompromising artistry and García’s refined Spanish tradition — expressed through the deeply evocative Evocación.