Christopher Parkening

Christopher Parkening established a professional career as a classical guitarist by the age of 19, swiftly becoming recognized for his virtuosity. His early command of the instrument led legendary maestro Andrés Segovia to call Parkening ‘one of the most brilliant guitarists in the world.’ Building on this early success, Parkening founded the guitar department at the University of Southern California in 1969, where he began shaping the next generation of classical musicians. Throughout his foundational years, he toured and recorded regularly, cementing his reputation as a leading figure in classical guitar. In his early thirties, Parkening temporarily stepped away from public performances and recording to pursue other interests.

Following a period of reflection, he returned to music with a renewed sense of purpose, dedicating his artistry to a higher calling. This pivotal period led to the release of ‘Simple Gifts,’ an acclaimed album of traditional Christian hymns arranged for classical guitar, showcasing his profound interpretative skill. In 2006, Parkening further shared his journey and insights with the publication of his autobiography, ‘Grace Like a River,’ offering readers a deeply personal account of his life and artistic philosophy. Throughout his distinguished career, Parkening has been a coveted guest soloist with some of the United States’ most prestigious ensembles, including the Philadelphia, Cleveland, and Chicago Symphony Orchestras.

Additionally, he serves as the Artistic Director of the renowned Parkening International Guitar Competition, a biennial event that identifies and champions emerging talent while celebrating the rich tradition of classical guitar worldwide. His ongoing contributions continue to inspire and elevate the genre.