Lorenzo Palomo is one of the most successful contemporary Spanish composers. His compositions have been strongly influenced by Andalusian folk-music with its Jewish, Moorish and flamenco elements. The Córdoba in which Palomo spent his childhood is the inspiration for the colourful and deeply felt Andalusian Nocturnes, written in response to a request from the great guitarist, Pepe Romero. Written for Montserrat Caballé, the Spanish Songs are no mere pictorial evocations of Andalusian scenes; they are best described as miniature dramas, a reflection of Palomo’s close association with opera since 1981, when he joined the music staff of Deutsche Oper Berlin.