Tucson Guitar Society Overview

The Tucson Guitar Society has been an integral part of the development of classical guitar in Tucson and Arizona. Through the visionary leadership of Julia Pernet and the incredible generosity of numerous donors, it is now a major force to be reckoned with in the guitar community worldwide, and features a vast array of programs and initiatives that alongside Bolton Guitar Studies make Tucson a special place to be for guitar:

International Concert Artist Series

TGS presents an annual concert series that brings internationally-acclaimed guitarists to Tucson. Our concerts take place at Holsclaw Hall, located on the University of Arizona campus.

Our Virtual Concert Series

In May, we launched Stringing our Community Together, a concert series designed to bring classical guitar to your living room. New concerts are streamed on YouTube every Sunday at 6:00 pm (PST) through May and June.

Tucson Guitar Society Orchestra

The Tucson Guitar Society Orchestra was established in 2009 and is comprised of community members, as well as college-level and professional guitarists. TGSO provides a stage to join guitar aficionados from all levels.  The requirements include the ability to read music and the desire to play together.

Sunday in the Garden Concert Series

Since 2015, TGS has been partnering with Tohono Chul to offer alfresco concerts during the fall and spring. This concerts series features local artists as well as high school music ensembles. Interested in performing? Contact tucsongs@gmail.com

Guitar in the Woods

Each month at the Woods Library TGS hosts guitarists performing various styles of acoustic music in an open mic setting that is free and open to the public. Performers of all ages and skill levels are welcome and include professionals, teachers, current and former university students, playing classical, folk, jazz, and original compositions. Interested in performing? Contact us at tucsongs@gmail.com

Golden Torch Initiative: Celebrating Women Composers

TGS is committed to advancing initiatives that aim to program works by women composers. Last year we partnered with Bolton Guitar Studies to award a special monetary prize to all finalists who perform a work composed by a woman in their final round. Currently, TGS is working on commissioning women composers. All works commissioned would be premiered during our International Concert Artist series. If you would like to support these initiatives, please consider donating.

Student Grants

TGS supports students in their musical learning path. Student Grants are made available through a competitive application process. The $200 grants may be used to fund guitar students participation in summer camps, competitions, and conferences. Funds are also held in reserve for students in distress, such as personal emergencies and humanitarian needs. If you would like to contribute to this fund, please go to our website.