26th Annual CSU Guitar Symposium Brought World Renown Performers to Columbus, GA

Written by Yinuo Chen

For over 25 years, the CSU Guitar Symposium has been a cornerstone of the classical and contemporary guitar community, not just in the United States but around the world. Founded and directed by Dr. Andrew Zohn, the Jo and George Jeter Distinguished Chair in Guitar at Columbus State University, the symposium has grown into a truly global event that guitarists of all levels dream of attending. It draws participants from every corner of the globe—aspiring musicians, seasoned professionals, and passionate fans of the guitar alike. For international students like me, it’s more than just an event; it’s a chance to connect with a worldwide community of guitar enthusiasts, learn from the best, and share our love for this incredible instrument. The symposium’s international appeal makes it a unique opportunity to experience diverse musical traditions and perspectives all in one place.

This year, the 26th Annual CSU Guitar Symposium, held on February 22 and 23, was proud to present an extraordinary lineup of internationally acclaimed artists, each bringing their unique artistry and passion to the stage. On Saturday night, we were treated to the WE Duo, a violin and guitar ensemble consisting of Erdong Li and Weiru Sheng, who have performed in various concerts across America and China. Their performance was a beautiful blend of classical elegance and modern energy. Next was Julia Trintschuk, a rising star in the guitar world known for her expressive performances and innovative interpretations. Her playing was both heartfelt and inspiring. On Sunday night, the stage was graced by Mak Grgić, a three-time Grammy-nominated artist and a true star on the global stage. His expansive and adventurous repertoire showcased his versatility and wide-ranging musical interests. Closing the symposium was Zoran Dukić, one of the most revered classical guitarists of our time. Known for his profound musicality, technical precision, and deeply emotional performances, he left the audience in awe. Whether performing solo or with an orchestra, Dukić’s artistry leaves a lasting impression on everyone who hears him.

The competition was divided into three divisions (High School, Undergraduate, and Open/Professional), ensuring that guitarists of all ages and experience levels had the opportunity to participate. The first round of competitions kicked off on Saturday morning, followed by masterclasses in the afternoon led by Zoran Dukić, Mak Grgić, and Andrew Zohn. On Sunday, masterclasses continued with Erdong Li, Adam Holzman, an international performing and recording artist as the founder of the Guitar Department at the University of Texas at Austin's Butler School of Music, and Julia Trintschuk, while the semifinals were underway. The competition finals took place later in the day, with each division awarding three prizes and selecting one first-place winner, who received a brand-new, high-quality Altamira guitar.

The 26th Annual CSU Guitar Symposium was more than just an event, it was an experience. Whether you’re a guitarist looking to hone your craft, a music lover eager to hear world-class performances, or simply someone who appreciates the power of music, this symposium had something for everyone. It was a weekend filled with connection and fantastic music.

For more information, including registration details, the full schedule, and a list of guest artists, visit https://events.columbusstate.edu/guitar-symposium/.

Mark your calendars and join us in Columbus next year for another incredible weekend of strings, inspiration, and unforgettable music!