Collection: FREDERIC HAND: THE MUSICAL HERITAGE SOCIETY RECORDINGS
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Hand began his musical journey relatively late compared to many virtuosos, initially drawn to folk music before dedicating himself to the classical guitar. He pursued formal studies at the prestigious Mannes College of Music (now part of The New School) in New York City, where he honed his technique and deepened his musical understanding. His development was further enriched by participation in masterclasses with the legendary British guitarist Julian Bream, a significant influence on his playing style and musical philosophy.
As a performer, Hand established himself as a soloist of exceptional sensitivity and skill, known for his clean articulation, expressive phrasing, and nuanced control of dynamics and tone color. He has appeared as a soloist with numerous orchestras and chamber ensembles across the United States and internationally, presenting both standard repertoire and his own compositions. His performances are characterized by a deep respect for musical tradition combined with a subtle infusion of improvisational sensibility, likely stemming from his affinity for jazz. He served for many years as the guitarist and lutenist for the Metropolitan Opera, performing both on stage and in the orchestra pit for various productions.
Perhaps Hand's most significant impact lies in his work as a composer and arranger. He possesses a unique ability to write idiomatically for the guitar, showcasing its expressive potential while often incorporating sophisticated harmonies drawn from jazz and contemporary classical music. His compositional style is lyrical, often infused with a gentle melancholy or a contemplative beauty. Notable original works include his Trilogy for solo guitar, Prayer, Lesley's Song, and numerous études and character pieces that are valued by both students and professional performers. He has also composed concertos and chamber works featuring the guitar.
Hand achieved widespread fame, perhaps unexpectedly, through his arrangement of music by Antonio Vivaldi (specifically, the Largo from the Concerto for Lute in D Major, RV 93) and Henry Purcell for the soundtrack of the Academy Award-winning 1979 film Kramer vs. Kramer. This poignant and beautifully crafted arrangement captured the public's imagination and earned Hand the 1980 Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Arrangement. This success brought both Hand and the classical guitar itself to a broader audience. He has continued to create masterful arrangements of works ranging from Bach and Dowland to jazz standards and folk tunes, demonstrating his versatility and deep understanding of different musical languages.
Beyond performance and composition, Frederic Hand has dedicated a significant portion of his career to education. Since 1986, he has been a highly regarded faculty member at the Mannes School of Music, where he has chaired the guitar department and mentored generations of aspiring guitarists. His teaching emphasizes not only technical mastery but also musical understanding, stylistic awareness, and the development of a personal artistic voice. He has also given masterclasses at universities and festivals worldwide.
Throughout his career, Hand has collaborated with a diverse array of artists, reflecting his broad musical interests. His ability to navigate different genres has made him a sought-after collaborator for vocalists, instrumentalists, and ensembles across the musical spectrum.
In summary, Frederic Hand stands as a multifaceted artist who has enriched the guitar world significantly. Through his elegant performances, his popular and critically acclaimed arrangements (especially the iconic Kramer vs. Kramer theme), his original compositions that blend lyrical beauty with harmonic sophistication, and his dedicated teaching, he has fostered a greater appreciation for the classical guitar while demonstrating its remarkable capacity to bridge diverse musical traditions.
