“Peña’s technique was flawless, from silky tremolos to fiery strummed rasguedos.”

“In his first Washington appearance, flamenco guitar master Paco Peña stirred the hearts of enthusiastic Gaston Hall audience Saturday night with a disciplined yet electrifying set of dance pieces.”

“Last night the Queen Elizabeth Hall was full to the brim with young, stalwart cheering fans if ever there was one, and a great artist.”

“…certainly the most satisfying flamenco concert this reviewer has heard this. Mr. Peña’s approach is vibrant and full bodied, and he makes effective use of the guitar’s tactile qualities – whether the rapid, machine-gun like flourishes that blast from his instrument, or the soft shading he etches with intricate delicacy…”

“With its pungent Hispanic aromas compounded by irrepressible rhythmic vitaity and sense of momentum, Peña’s flamenco playing was indeed impossible to resist.”

“I Knew that Paco Peña was popular, and expected the concert to sell out; what I did not expect was the sight of hapless individuals pathetically petitioning every passing concert-goer for tickets. It is clear that the performer’s popularity has reached a new high…Paco Peña’s technique is first class and needle-sharp, his interpretations are firm, individual and rhythmic. Most important, however, they are full of life and energy and that spontaneous quality which he always infuses into his concerts.2

“It was the most brilliant guitar playing I had heard in a long time.”

“His total dedication of almost incredible technical skill so ensuring that listeners, held a packed house enraptured.”

“His musicians and singers charismatically express love of freedom, resignation under oppression and an unconquerable faith that soarsfrom an anguished soul.”

“The Misa is that rarest of things, a totally successful fusion of disparate forms.”