Fans of classical guitar music are familiar with the compositions of Antonio Lauro. He began formal study of piano and composition when his family moved to Caracas after his father’s death. Hearing a concert by classical guitarist and composer Agustin Barrios led Lauro down a new path of composing.

He used his compositions to save and celebrate the national music of Valenzuela, and his pieces have been performed by great artists like Segovia. In addition to his guitar pieces, Lauro composed many other pieces for orchestra, choir, piano, and voice, many of which remain unpublished. After a stint in prison for his democratic beliefs, Lauro taught guitar and even went on a solo tour despite his belief he was a composer, not a singer. Just before his death in 1986, Venezuela presented him with their highest artistic honor, the Premio Nacional de Música.