Jazz guitarist Mindaugas Stumbras is one of Lithuania’s ascending young jazz musicians and composers. In 2022, he received the Young Performer Award from the country's Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Lithuania. Currently based in his home country, Stumbras has become known as a leader of his quintet, a member of the Brave Noises band, and a participant of international projects. After graduating from conservatoires in Vilnius and Glasgow, he is now getting back to schooling, this time as a composer.

His music, according to the musicologist Laima Slepkovaitė, is remarkably melodic and expressive, his guitar technique comprehensive and aimed at quality. His first set of sheet music, Guitar Sketches, contains twelve short pieces for advanced students. The cycle draws inspiration from a number of sources, including world music, jazz, Middle Eastern, and Western classical. It ranges from the arranged Lithuanian folk song to Argentinian tango, Brazilian-tinged tunes to Romanticism-inspired melancholic melodies.

Most compositions, written for classical and acoustic guitar, appear in precise and detailed notation, but some instances the composer leaves room for free interpretation. 

“I consider this cycle a travel across the music of our world and the different times. I hope this publication will offer a chance for young guitarists to discover the immense opportunities the instrument offers. This set represents, at least in part, my view of the vast spectrum of guitar music. I am most grateful to the editor of the publication, Chris Ruebens, who has shared with me his knowledge and experience. I would like to thank the Lithuanian Council for Culture for the financial support. Play, invent and enjoy the moments in music!”  – says Mindaugas Stumbras.

You can purchase the whole book and every piece separately in PDF format here.