Christopher Parkening is ranked as one of the world’s preeminent virtuosos of the classical guitar. The Washington Post
cited, he is “the leading guitar virtuoso of our day
combining profound musical insight with complete technical
mastery of his instrument,” and The Los Angeles Times
wrote, “Parkening is considered America’s reigning
classical guitarist, carrying the torch of his mentor,
the late Andrés Segovia.” The great Spanish guitarist
Segovia proclaimed that “Christopher Parkening is a great
artist—he is one of the most brilliant guitarists in the
world.”
In his words:
"The use of strings as a natural and organic tool of musical expression is as ancient as the history of mankind, from the ancient harp and lyre of the Mediterranean region to the "modern" violin, cello, bass and guitar. Whether used for a Bach fugue or for an Ozark hoedown, stringed instruments have been giving voice to artists for as long as there has been recorded history. The natural materials from which these instruments are crafted and their long life span (with the best violins, cellos and basses having been made in the 1600's and 1700's and yet still played today) is perfectly in keeping with Artosphere's exploration of art, nature and sustainability. Artosphere's "The Nature of Strings" series invites audiences to take inspiration from beautiful settings and the resonance of stringed instruments in the hands of master musicians."