Carcassi — Étude No. 2, Op. 60 (Free Solo Edition)

About the piece: Matteo Carcassi’s 25 Studies, Op. 60 remain a cornerstone of classical guitar pedagogy nearly two centuries after their publication, and Etude No. 2 is an arpeggio study that combines a moving arpeggio pattern with alternating fingers on a single string — the right hand has to keep the arpeggio flowing while the same-string alternation stays even underneath it. It’s a natural next step for a student who already has basic arpeggio patterns under the fingers and is ready to add alternation control on top.

Edition notes

Composer: Matteo Carcassi
Genre: Classical, Study/Etude
Instrumentation: Solo Guitar
Level: Intermediate
Notation: Treble clef, standard notation
Format: PDF download
Edition: Critical edition by Dr. Sam Desmet — fingerings and dynamics added

Hear it

This etude has been recorded by Sam Desmet, also available on YouTube Music, Pandora, and other streaming platforms.

Part of the Carcassi: Reimagined project

This etude also has a guitar-duo “Reimagined” arrangement — Carcassi’s original paired with a new second-guitar part composed by Troy Gifford, performed and recorded by Sam Desmet and Troy Gifford. Read more on the Carcassi: Reimagined project page.

Like this piece? The full duo arrangement is available as part of the Carcassi: Reimagined Op. 60 Duo Collection — five etudes, sold as one collection.

FAQ

Is this arrangement free to use in teaching and recitals?
Yes — this is a free critical edition intended for study and performance use.

What level is Etude No. 2?
Intermediate. The student should already be comfortable with basic arpeggio patterns before adding same-string finger alternation on top.

Is there a duo version?
Yes — see the Carcassi: Reimagined Op. 60 Duo Collection above, featuring a second-guitar part, composed by Troy Gifford.