Master Class Info

1. To be considered as a student performer in one of our live or online virtual master classes, each student auditioning must send a prerecorded YouTube video link to us at info@usclassicguitar.org and a scanned copy of the sheet music in PDF format no later than one week prior to the date of the class. The video should be one piece or one movement of a larger work recorded exclusively for the class.
2. If the student is applying for a virtual class ,each student must have a good quality camera positioned so the instructor can see both their left and right hand, have good sound quality, and a strong internet connection. Each student should be ready to perform parts or possibly all of the piece live at the class during the Zoom meeting. Each student should have their music out on the stand with a pencil handy to make notes.
3. If selected to perform in the class, we will email you back a link to purchase the performer fee which is $75 per student and is nonrefundable.
4. No previous performance or guitar skills are required for auditing the class and we will have a live question and answer session during the master class with the instructor and the auditors.

What is a master class?

A master class is a when a master musician (like Pepe Romero or one of the other artists in the U.S. International Guitar Series) listens to usually three or four pre-selected students who perform one piece live in front of the master class instructor and other auditors and students attending the class (except in the case of a virtual master class where the initial performance might be prerecorded to optimize sound and video quality). The instructor will work with each student on an individual basis and might discuss musical interpretation, guitar technique, performance anxiety or whatever is relevant to further the student's development as a player.  The lesson is given in an open room, performance hall, or virtually online so everyone attending the class can learn from the advice given.  You do not need to be a performer in the class to benefit from a master class.  In fact, many times it is best to attend a master class as an auditor without the distraction of needing to prepare to perform so you focus on what is being taught and you can take notes. Usually, there will be a Q&A section of the class where auditors may ask specific questions.  Master classes benefit all levels of guitarist from beginning to professional.

To order tickets to a master class as an auditor, select the artist you want from the ticket sales page link below. Master class audit tickets are included in season tickets.

Order Tickets

Some general tips for students performing in the class:

1.  Select a single piece from the classical guitar repertoire that you know well. The performance doesn't have to be perfect but a master class student should not select a piece that is too difficult beyond their playing ability and they should not perform a piece if they are still learning it.  It is always better to choose an easier piece that you can play well.   These classes are designed to polish and improve pieces that have already been learned.  If you're working with an instructor ask them if they feel you are ready to perform in a master class.

2.  The piece should not be too long and if it is part of a larger work then just select one movement. 

3.  Always have at least one extra copy of the music for the instructor to view during the performance and make sure it is a copy where you don't mind if notes are added directly to the score.  Have a pencil ready for notes.

4.  Each student performing will have approximately 25 minutes of the class.  Try to think of specific questions you might have before you come to the class.  

5.  Know the piece well enough that you can start at any point and not just the beginning.  If you have the piece memorized, also be able to read the music directly from the score from any point.

6.  It is a good idea to do a little research to see if the piece you're playing has been recorded or transcribed by the master class instructor.  It so, it is always best to play their transcription or edition out of respect. 

Here is a master class video that we presented a few years back so you can get an idea of the format.