Siegfried Behrend

German Classical Guitar Virtuoso

Siegfried Behrend (1933–1990) was a renowned German classical guitarist and composer who made significant contributions to the repertoire and popularity of the guitar as a concert instrument. He was a prolific performer and recorded extensively, helping to revive interest in the guitar in classical music circles during the mid-20th century. Behrend was known for his versatility, playing not only traditional classical works but also exploring contemporary compositions and arrangements. He collaborated with various composers who dedicated works to him, thus expanding the guitar's presence on the concert stage. In addition to his performance career, Behrend was also an educator, imparting his knowledge to a new generation of guitarists through teaching and masterclasses. His influence extended beyond performance and pedagogy; he also arranged music for guitar and composed original pieces, further enriching the classical guitar literature.