Up Next: Fall Events by Carmel Guitar Society & 2025 Highlights

The Carmel Guitar Society promised to bring classical guitar community to the Monterey Bay in 2025 and delivered on that commitment, meeting the goals of the organization's mission to expand the reach of classical guitar through concert events, open mics, the Healing Guitar program and an annual retreat. Everyone is invited and that continues to be the message as we grow audiences surrounding the beauty of classical guitar.

In June, more than 20 attendees participated in a four-day retreat at Asilomar that included Carmel Guitar Society board members, world-renowned artists, hobbyists, and professional players who came together for workshops, ensemble performances, lessons and special concert events. The first event of its kind to be presented by Carmel Guitar Society proved so successful that the 2026 retreat is already in the works! Help us spread the word about this now annual event that will take place at the Asilomar Resort next June with new artists and programming now informed by the wonderful participants of 2025.

The five concert events and seasonal open mics presented by Carmel Guitar Society thus far have brought more than 400 attendees in total and included our well-loved local venues and hosts at Pacific Grove Art Center and SandBox Sand City. We are grateful to the accomplished artists who have brought a wide range of repertoires and much diversity in their musical programs, appealing to all for enjoyment. Healing Guitar brought live music to more the 100 residents of local care facilities.

To recap the concert events, young rising star Laurel Harned kicked off the series with her concert in February, taking the audience on a heartfelt adventure. In April we were stunned by An Tran whose performance was rich with storytelling and soulful pieces of music. A massive star in his home country of Vietnam, we were honored to present yet another up-and-comer on the American classical music scene. In June we presented three concerts back-to-back by artists featured at the Carmel Guitar Society classical guitar retreat, making it possible for the public to enjoy their talent as well. Hao Yang impressed us so with her technical mastery and beautiful choice of program that left us all in awe. It is always a pleasure to enjoy William Kanengiser and the night of performance he shared was a treasure that included board member Kenny Hill as special guest for a portion of the program. Evan Hirschelman performed the last night of the retreat event and gave a unique and lively program that incorporated surprising contemporary flair into masterful and disciplined classical guitar playing. These truly gifted and exceptionally warm and generous artists have raised the bar high for future seasons and series, we accept the challenge and are grateful for the inspiring nights of music and professionalism.

On Saturday, October 25th, Anthony DeMers will deliver the final concert in our 2025 series. Open to all, this event takes place at Pacific Grove Art Center and will make for a delightful fall gathering ahead of the holiday rush. Tickets are available NOW.

Saturday, December 6th is the final Carmel Guitar Society event of the year and will be hosted by board members. Enjoy a Community Open Mic & Mixer to celebrate the holiday season and one of the organization's most active years to date.

For the first time, Carmel Guitar Society has been accepted into the Monterey County Gives! program! We are honored to be a part of this special select group of nonprofits in Monterey County and will soon make more announcements about this local campaign how you can help.

Remember, your support means more connections and opportunities for artists and community members alike. Get in touch to learn more about ways you can become involved with Carmel Guitar Society. Please come to our next event; we look forward to seeing you!

Join us for the last concert in our 2025 series! GET TICKETS

You're invited to the Pacific Grove Art Center on Dec 6th | RSVP to perform HERE