VGUI GTRJR - Guitar Fest West 13+
Course description
GuitarFest West is an immersive week-long program designed to inspire and challenge classical guitar students ages 13 and older with a minimum playing level of RCM Level 4 (or director approval). The program emphasizes solo performance development through private instruction and masterclasses while strengthening musicianship through ensemble rehearsals and collaborative learning.
Morning sessions focus on technique classes and ensemble work, while afternoons and evenings feature faculty recitals, lectures, performance workshops, and masterclasses led by an outstanding international faculty. Each participant receives three private lessons or masterclass experiences throughout the week, culminating in a student recital showcasing solo and ensemble performances.
GuitarFest West 2026 also includes an international guitar competition open to participants of all ages, with cash prizes and a featured concert opportunity for the first-place winner.
In addition to intensive musical training, students enjoy concerts, a Luthier’s Fair, and opportunities to connect with peers and professional artists, creating a dynamic and inspiring environment for musical growth.
Competition Description
The GuitarFest West Competition is open to classical guitarists of all ages, including international participants. Designed to celebrate artistic excellence and performance achievement, the competition provides participants with the opportunity to showcase their musicianship before a distinguished panel of professional guitarists and educators.
Finalists will perform live as part of the GuitarFest West Concert Series, offering valuable performance experience in a professional concert setting. Prizes include $1,000 and a featured concert at GuitarFest West for first place, $500 for second place, and $250 for third place.
The competition aims to encourage artistic growth, performance confidence, and connection within the international classical guitar community.
Festival and Competition Description
GuitarFest West is an immersive week-long festival and international competition celebrating classical guitar performance, education, and artistic collaboration. Open to guitarists ages 13 and older (RCM Level 4 or equivalent, or director approval), the festival offers intensive training through private instruction, masterclasses, ensemble rehearsals, and performance workshops led by an outstanding international faculty.
Alongside the festival program, the GuitarFest West Competition welcomes participants of all ages from around the world. Competitors perform for a distinguished panel of artists and educators, with finalists appearing live as part of the GuitarFest West Concert Series. Prizes include $1,000 and a featured concert at GuitarFest West for first place, $500 for second place, and $250 for third place.
Together, the festival and competition provide a dynamic environment that supports artistic growth, performance excellence, and meaningful connection within the global classical guitar community.