When I heard of this great artist’s passing, I, like the rest of the guitar world felt a deep sense of loss. Though I only had met him once and knew him more through his scores and concerts, it was clear that he was well-loved for his spirited personality, his abundant creativity, and for sharing his artistry so generously on stage. From his meticulous arrangements of french songs, jazz standards, and brazilian pieces, to his own compositions, Roland Dyens has left a treasure trove of music and arrangements written for guitar with a depth of knowledge that can only result from a lifetime of guitar playing.

One of the most beautiful moments in my life had Roland Dyens’ music as a soundtrack. His arrangement of Edith Piaf’s L’Hymne a L’Amour was played during my wedding by my dear friend Marc Teicholz years ago. A day memorable for many reasons but elevated, like the world around him, by his music.