***1/2 HOVHANESS, KERNIS, REICH, others. David Tanenbaum, guitar. (New Albion)

The classical guitar repertory, though increasing of late, still amounts to slim pickings, and it’s inspiring to hear Tanenbaum’s cavalcade of new guitar music. The term “new music” should inspire no fear: This collection manages to be both challenging and soothing. Minimalist composers do well by this accomplished guitarist. Steve Reich’s “Nagoya Guitars,” adapted from a marimba piece, finds Tanenbaum overdubbing a second, interlacing guitar part. He also brings signature clarity to the adventurous, Villa-Lobos-esque turns of Terry Riley’s 1995 “Barabas.” Frank Zappa’s tart, propulsive “Waltz for Guitar” is the most atonal work of the lot, but, at a duration of 39 seconds, is just a teaser compared to more ambitious works like Aaron Jay Kernis’ “Partita,” Lew Richmond’s 3 Preludes and Alan Hovhaness’ Sonata No. 1.