FROM THE INFORMAL TO THE PRESTIGIOUS ...

There is virtually an unlimited number of music competitions – many of them focused specifically on the guitar – that are held each year in cities around the world and, in some cases, at venues that are close to home. For those of my students who wish to learn more about the various options, I provide ongoing guidance and support for the process of competition selection, application, and preparation.

Participation in a competition can provide an invaluable learning experience and an excellent means of self-encouragement and motivation. This is true whether the event is local and more informal ... or prestigious and more demanding — like the Downbeat competition, which recognizes students that excel in jazz, or the International Youth Competition for classical guitarists that is sponsored annually by the GFA (Guitar Foundation of America).

A more relaxed and all-inclusive annual competition is held at Recital Café events. All of my students are encouraged to participate. Prizes are awarded — in all playing styles — to students who have made significant progress in their guitar studies over the previous 12 months. Special awards are also given for composition, innovation, inspiration, and program support.