UTSA to host sixth annual Southwest Guitar Symposium, March 14-16

FEBRUARY 11, 2025 -The UTSA School of Music will host award-winning guitarists next month for its sixth annual Southwest Guitar Symposium (SWGS), a three-day event that will feature musical performances and a series of competitions to nurture up-and-coming artists.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with professional musicians, educators and industry leaders at the symposium, gaining insights into guitar performance techniques and career development.

The event will be held from March 14 to 16, 2025, at the Arts Building on the UTSA Main Campus. It will feature a slate of distinguished guitarists, including the Cicchillitti-Cowan Guitar Duo from Canada, the Zohn-Li Guitar Duo, Duo Fortis (Alejandro Montiel and Isaac Bustos), the Rubio-Reece Duo, and Costa Rican guitarist Marco Corrales.

Additionally, the winners of the 2024 SWGS Competitions will perform at the symposium. They include Allen Liu and David Manzanares and will be accompanied by special guests Rachel Woolf (flute), Jourdan Laine Howell (soprano) and the Coronado High School Chamber Orchestra, which is under the direction of Timothy Thomas.

The UTSA School of Music will host solo guitar competitions for high school and open divisions at the symposium, providing a platform for talented young musicians to shine. These guitarists will have the opportunity to engage in masterclasses and workshops led by world-class instructors.

A vendor expo will be available throughout the weekend to showcase handcrafted instruments, accessories and innovations in guitar technology.