Connecticut Guitar Guild
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Join us for our 2nd Annual Guitar Festival! Experience a day filled with incredible music, talented performers, and a vibrant community of guitar enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on this unforgettable of all things guitar!
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The Connecticut Guitar Guild is excited to host our 2nd annual festival that celebrates the richness of classical music through captivating performances and engaging educational programming. Attendees can look forward to a lineup of talented musicians showcasing their skills in a series of workshops and classes throughout the day. In addition to the classes, the festival will feature performances and interactive sessions designed to educate and inspire both aspiring guitarists and music enthusiasts. This event promises to be a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and appreciate the art of classical guitar.
A native of New England, award winning guitarist Peter Clemente is a frequent recitalist and committed music educator. An eclectic musician with influences from both classical and improvisatory traditions, his playing has been described as “sumptuous classical guitar” (Camden Herald), and “haunting expressiveness” (Worcester Telegram and Gazette).
Mr. Clemente’s performance career began with First Prize awards in the Guitar Foundation of America (GFA) International Solo Competition in 1986 and the Ovation Classical Guitar Competition in 1981. In addition, he was chosen by maestro Andres Segovia as a finalist in the Segovia Fellowship Competition held at New York University in 1984, and was a Second Prize winner in the International Guitar Competition of Puerto Rico in 1985. He has since performed in solo and chamber music settings throughout New England and beyond. Some noteworthy performances include those for Bay Chamber Concerts, Boston and CT Classical Guitar Societies, Rochester Chamber Music Society, WCRB Copley Square Concert Series, and at venues such as Weill Hall (with soprano Katherine Emory), Mechanics Hall, Cornell University, Jordan Hall, University of Texas and many more. Hailed by Soundboard magazine for his “professionalism and musical aplomb,” Clemente is further recognized for his creative programming, often including original compositions and improvisations alongside traditional repertory. Viewing the voice of the guitar as transformative, he has also worked with composers such as the late Daniel Pinkham and film score writer John Kusiak in the preparation and performance of new and exciting works for the instrument.
Mr. Clemente holds degrees from both The Hartt School and New England Conservatory where he studied the guitar with Richard Provost and David Leisner. He currently devotes considerable time to teaching as an Artist/Teacher in Guitar at The Hartt School, and at Assumption University where, in addition to the guitar, he has designed courses in world music – an area of secondary emphasis inspired by the music of Astor Piazzolla. Mr. Clemente has held previous teaching positions at Boston University, Tufts University, and the Longy School.