The Carmel Guitar Society fosters classical guitar appreciation and cultural enrichment in Monterey County through concerts, workshops, and therapeutic music programs. By supporting local and international artists, offering accessible ticket programs, and providing educational workshops, the organization brings the community together to experience, enjoy, and celebrate the beauty of classical guitar.
The Carmel Guitar Society’s goal is to present a consistent, high-quality concert series featuring both acclaimed international artists and talented local musicians. Our events bring the Monterey County community together through the shared experience of live classical guitar performances in welcoming, accessible settings.
Funding will support artist fees, venue rentals, and outreach efforts to broaden access—especially for students, seniors, and those facing financial barriers. Each event includes opportunities for local players to open for visiting performers and/or participate in community masterclasses.
By investing in world-class performances and local engagement, the series enriches cultural life across the region and strengthens Monterey County’s identity as a hub for the arts. These concerts offer inspiration, education, and connection for audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
With donor support, we can continue growing a vibrant, inclusive classical guitar community—one event experience at a time.
Carmel Guitar Society’s Annual Concert Series directly benefits Monterey County by presenting high-caliber performances in accessible local venues. These concerts bring together diverse audiences from across the county to experience the beauty of live classical guitar in welcoming settings. By offering discounted or free tickets to students, seniors, and low-income residents, we ensure equitable access to world-class music experiences. The series also features performance and educational opportunities for local youth and adult guitarists, who are invited to open for visiting artists and attend community masterclasses. These events create shared cultural experiences that connect people of all ages and backgrounds, while supporting the development of local talent. By strengthening public access to the arts and highlighting both global excellence and local musicianship, the concert series contributes to Monterey County’s cultural vitality and community identity. Your support helps sustain these inspiring performances and the connections they spark throughout our region.
The Carmel Guitar Society has elevated public guitar performance tremendously in the last few years. CGS is bringing world-class talent to Central Coast audiences who haven't had many opportunities to experience the instrument on that level while also featuring rising, homegrown guitar talent. Their concert series is a real treasure.
- Shiela Gibbons Hiebert, Carmel Valley
