José Antonio Chic
Conductor, Composer & Founder of Ensemble XXI
José Antonio Chic is a leading figure in the evolution of guitar ensemble repertoire. Nominated for «Best Classical Music Composer» by the Spanish Academy of Arts and Music Sciences, his innovative works are part of the curriculum at prestigious institutions such as The Juilliard School in New York and are performed by orchestras worldwide.
Artistic Background & International Recognition
Born in Lleida (Spain), he trained under the guidance of his uncle Ricard Chic and Arnaldur Arnarson, later joining the Konzertclass of Maestro Oscar Ghiglia at the Hochschule für Musik Basel (Switzerland), where he graduated with the «Solistendiplom» and the «Honour Award.» Early in his career, he was awarded the «Excellence Diploma» at the European Guitar Competition in Paris.
A disciple of the legendary Ernest Xancó (Pau Casals’ protégé), he has performed to critical acclaim as a soloist with renowned orchestras such as the Gonçal Comellas Chamber Orchestra, Budapest Strings, and Virtuosi di Praga. His monographic recording of Emili Pujol’s work is featured in the prestigious «Guitar’s Top 100,» a selection of the finest guitar recordings of all time.
Innovation in Composition & Discography
As the founder and conductor of Ensemble XXI, José Antonio has developed a unique catalog of over 50 original works and arrangements. His music, inspired by nature, ancient legends, and fantasy, has earned praise from masters like Roland Dyens, Ricardo Gallén, and Andrew York.
- Global Impact: His compositions are studied and premiered in the USA, Canada, Russia, Korea, and across Europe.
- Miquel Llobet International Competition 2026: His arrangements of Manuel de Falla’s works have been selected as mandatory pieces for this prestigious world-class event.
- «Treasures of the Classical Guitar»: He leads this ambitious three-volume recording and publishing project, dedicated to rediscovering and promoting hidden gems of the guitar repertoire.
- Latest Projects & Notable Works: A centerpiece of his repertoire is the suite «Sivana» (composed in 2014). Inspired by Robin Sharma’s international bestseller The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, this work showcases his mastery in blending spirituality with rich orchestral guitar textures, capturing the essence of Julian Mantle’s transformative journey.
Philosophy & Global Outreach
Dedicated to democratizing access to high-quality music, he has released his entire catalog for free download at GuitarInEnsemble.com, providing essential resources for guitar orchestras globally. He is also a sought-after lecturer on music pedagogy and ensemble management, and the author of the reflective books “Compañero de viaje” and “Donde no muere la hierba.”
A Tribute from a Master: Leo Brouwer
«I have had among my students, in various masterclasses, José Antonio Chic from Spain; whom I consider a notable talent and a virtuoso who represents the new generation of Spanish guitarists among its finest examples.»
— Leo Brouwer (Madrid, January 1991)
