Classical guitar masters to gather in Panama

PANAMA. Renowned classic guitar artists from around the world will come together May 18 – 22 at the VII International Guitar Gathering, a unique and important musical event to be held at the National Theater in Casco Viejo.

The event is organized by the Panama Guitar Association, a non-profit entity that supports the cultural development of our country.

The first evening concert on May 18 will feature as solo artist, Cuban-American Maestro Manuel Barrueco, internationally renowned as one of the most important classic guitar artists of our times.

On subsequent nights, other famous classic guitar artists from Israel, Spain, Mexico, the United States, and of course, Panama will perform in a series of concerts: guitar without borders (May 19), Spaniard guitar (May 20), guitar and orchestra (May 21) and guitar of the Americas (May 22).

Manuel Barrueco’s unique artistry is that of a superb instrumentalist, and a superior and elegant musician producing a seductive sound and displaying uncommon lyrical gifts. His career has been dedicated to bringing the guitar to the main musical centers of the world, performing across the US from the New World Symphony in Miami to New York’s Lincoln Center and across Europe from the Royal Albert Hall in London to the Musikverein in Vienna.

His musical skills have been lauded by the New York Times as “of a superior musician,” while the Los Angeles Times calls him “A major artist with remarkable musicianship and a world of technique ? simply and consistently –awesome.”

This musical gathering has evolved into the most important event for the guitar in Panama. Through its six previous versions, held every two years, more than 50 international artists have participated from all around the world.

Artists participate in evening concerts, lead recitals and offer technical classes to musical students, dictate conferences and play as soloists with the Panama National Orchestra.

With its series of events, the Gathering aims to support musical development in Panama, by helping train, encourage, and motivate musical students.

Tickets are $7 - $33 for Monday May 18 and $7 - $23 for the rest of the performances. They are on sale at Blockbuster.

For more information, contact the Panama Guitar Association at 213-2401.