Calling on all Guitar Enthusiasts, more affectionately known as GUITAR NUTS and those of you who JUST LOVE GREAT MUSIC!!! The weekend of November 8 and 9, SUNY Oswego hosts a first and epic event. This year’s symposium grew out of the Jazz Guitar Festivals held from 2000 until 2006, into a two-day immersion, a musical journey that includes world class concerts, master classes, and many incredibly intimate, tiered workshops. I personally invite you to join us and be exposed to an event that is sure to make–and shape–the musical development and aspirations for many of you, while providing wonderful listening for the rest!

Dreams sometimes do come true! My first dream was a six-year series of Jazz Guitar & More Festivals. For my latest dream I envisioned a two-day event that would encompass the many genres of music that the guitar is integral to playing. The SUNY Oswego campus will host the first ever Guitar Symposium that includes classical, finger style, traditional jazz, funk, fusion, Brazilian, and Gypsy jazz concerts, along with master classes and workshops. This event attracts vendors, luthiers and internationally known prominent musicians to the Oswego Community Campus. The synergy of this event promises to present music in an inviting and open setting to share with other guitarists. As a music educator and jazz guitarist for over 20 years, I have had the opportunity to hear many of these incredible artists. As part of my personal mission, both educationally and artistically, I hope to provide a forum in which these artists can be heard in performances and workshops that will inspire all who attend. I look forward to seeing old friends and making some new ones.

Best Regards!

Rick Balestra
 

See the schedule!