Carmel Guitar Society Welcomes New Board Members and New Roles
2026 Announcements from the Carmel Guitar Society Nonprofit Board of Directors
The Carmel Guitar Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is proud to announce exciting changes within its all-volunteer leadership team. Known for enriching lives through classical guitar, the organization is powered by passionate individuals and generous donors who support its programs. These contributions ensure that funds go directly to artists, fostering a thriving classical guitar community on the Monterey Peninsula and beyond.
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After years of dedicated service, Ronald Friedman, the longtime President of the Carmel Guitar Society, transitions into a new role as Treasurer, taking over this role from Richard DeVinck. Under Ron’s leadership, the organization grew its reach, supported world-renowned artists, and launched impactful initiatives like the Healing Guitar Program, which brings live performances to senior care facilities and hospitals.
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Richard DeVinck, who has served the Carmel Guitar Society as Treasurer for many years, steps down from this role. Richard will continue to guide the board from his years of experience and remain as Member At-Large.
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We welcome two new Members At-Large to the Carmel Guitar Society Board of Directors, Marc Schonbrun and Willem Cilliers,
Anthony DeMers | President
Anthony DeMers is a classical guitarist, luthier, and educator based in Pacific Grove, California. As president of the Carmel Guitar Society, he is committed to cultivating a thriving guitar community on the Monterey Peninsula. For Anthony, the guitar is more than an instrument—it is a lifelong journey of expression, craftsmanship, and connection. A dedicated performer and teacher, he studied under esteemed mentors Guy Cantwell and Mesut Özgen, continually honing his artistry through collaboration and pedagogy. In addition to leading Guitar Ensemble Monterey, he works with composers to expand the guitar repertoire and inspires the next generation of musicians through innovative educational initiatives. His handcrafted guitars reflect a deep understanding of the instrument’s artistry and potential.
Erica Glenn | Vice President
Erica Glenn is passionate about supporting the music industry and empowering creative clients through innovative systems, impactful promotions, and strategic storytelling. Her expertise has driven sold-out shows, earned billions of views for clients, and garnered recognition from top artists and industry leaders. A lifelong enthusiast of music, media, and writing, Erica blends her talents in organizational development, communications, and brand strategy to foster meaningful connections between artists and audiences. Her work centers on expanding engagement and amplifying the reach of the arts through special events and publishing. A dedicated lifelong learner, she continuously hones her skills through classes, mentorships, and exploring cutting-edge ideas. As Vice President of the Carmel Guitar Society board, Erica is honored to help bring the transformative power of music to her community.​
Toni Gibbs | Secretary
Toni Gibbs brings her passion for music to the Monterey Peninsula community through multiple meaningful roles. As secretary of the Carmel Guitar Society board, she helps the organization enrich lives through classical guitar. For the past five years, she has shared her musical talents as a performer with Guitar Ensemble Monterey, contributing to the peninsula's vibrant classical music landscape. Toni's dedication to music's therapeutic power shines through her work as a Clinical Musician Intern, a first step to her becoming a Certified Therapeutic Musician. Through regular performances at local assisted living centers and hospice facilities, she demonstrates music's unique ability to comfort and connect. Her commitment to both artistic excellence and compassionate service exemplifies the transformative impact of music in our community.
Dr Ronald Friedman | Treasurer​
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Ron Friedman is a dedicated advocate of the classical guitar for over 40 years. During his 15-year term as president of the Carmel Guitar Society, he played a pivotal role in organizing board meetings, presentations, open mic events, and sponsoring renowned artists such as the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet, Andy York, and Scott Tennant. Under his leadership, the society established the “Healing Guitar Program,” bringing live guitar performances to senior care facilities and hospitals—an initiative he actively participates in as a performer. In addition to his musical contributions, Ron brings over 40 years of experience as a practicing ophthalmologist, along with extensive management expertise from running a solo practice. A multi-instrumentalist, he also plays ukulele and flute and performs with the Del Monte Brass. Ron enjoys skiing, bike riding, and flying as a private pilot. Married for 40 years, he is a proud father and grandfather, committed to fostering community through music.
Richard DeVinck | Member At-Large
Richard DeVinck brings his deep musical expertise and dedication to the Carmel Guitar Society as its long-serving treasurer. A Monterey County resident since 1977, Richard holds both a B.A. and M.F.A. in Guitar Performance from UCLA. He has performed extensively throughout California, showcasing a repertoire that spans from Albinoni to Led Zeppelin, and can be found performing every Sunday at the Cypress Inn in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Richard’s passion for community enrichment is exemplified by his contributions to the Healing Guitar Program, which uses music to bring comfort and connection to those in need. His discography includes acclaimed albums such as Going to California: A Tribute to Led Zeppelin and Christmas is Coming: A Tribute to Vince Guaraldi and Johnny Marks. In addition to his work with the Society, Richard is a Salinas City Elementary School District educator and a featured artist with Kelly Productions of Monterey, CA.
Kenneth Hill | Member At-Large
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Kenny Hill brings over 40 years of experience and dedication to the art of classical guitar. As one of the most respected luthiers of our time, Kenny’s innovative craftsmanship has earned him international acclaim. Beyond his reputation as a master guitar maker, Kenny is also an accomplished composer and guitarist. His passion for the classical guitar continues to evolve as he focuses on creating original music and performing. Kenny’s unique blend of artistry, technical expertise, and deep connection to the instrument makes him an invaluable advocate for the classical guitar community. His connections to world class artists help bring exciting classical musicians to the Carmel Guitar Society concert series.
Marc Schonbrun | Member At-Large​
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Marc Schonbrun is a musician and author who has published over 15 books on music and guitar technology. A longtime D’Addario endorsing artist and classical guitarist, Marc also brings nearly two decades of experience leading software teams in Silicon Valley. He lives at the intersection of music and technology, with a career dedicated to both creative practice and technical leadership.
Willem Cilliers | Member At-Large
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Willem Cilliers started playing folk guitar as a teenager. Inspired by legends like Andres Segovia, Narciso Yepes and John Williams, turned to classical guitar instead, Now, as a happily retired Microsoft Engineer and IBM IT Architect, devotes his free time to extensive travels with his wife Madhu, learning new languages and playing classical guitar.​