Nicanor Zabaleta

Nicanor Zabaleta was an internationally acclaimed Spanish classical harpist. Born in Madrid in 1913, he was one of the most influential harpists of the twentieth century, and was also renowned for his virtuosic technique and musicality.

Zabaleta’s most acclaimed recordings include the albums Music for Harp (1954) and Harp Concertos (1959). These recordings featured some of the most well-known harp pieces in the classical repertoire, including the works of composers such as Handel, Haydn, and Ravel. His other recordings include Spanish Harp Music (1973) and Harp Music of the Renaissance (1981).

Some of Zabaleta’s most notable songs include “Habanera” by Ravel, “Concerto in B-flat Major” by Handel, and “Nocturne” by Schubert.

An interesting fact about Nicanor Zabaleta is that he was the first harpist to play in the Proms, the annual series of classical music concerts held in London’s Royal Albert Hall. He performed there in 1955.