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Our purpose is to promote the education, appreciation and cultural awareness of the classical guitar and other associated instruments as a non-profit presenting arts organization

Guitar concert pictures

A Note from CGSUNY
President Paul Sweeny

President Paul SweeneyThe Classical Guitar Society of Upstate New York was founded in the year 2000. It has seen many changes, but remains true to its original goal of promoting the classical guitar and its music. In a collaboration between Dennis Turechek and his student Gail Hamilton, was born this labor of love—especially since Gail was willing and able to do most of the hard work. The CGSUNY grew and became stronger because of countless members and volunteers in the Upstate region helping with fund raising concerts, outreach to schools, play-arounds at various venues, soirees, guitar ensemble performances, and, of course, the celebrated Fall Festival. Every year these altruistic members pitched in and built a bottom up organization that has become what we are today. As current president, I am leading us through unprecedented pandemic times and the future can seem uncertain, however, our efforts to grow and prosper are not. I invite all to join us in helping to make our future more certain. I am proud to follow in the footsteps of all who came before and the officers and members of the board of directors devote our energies to furthering these goals and serving those who share them. 

Upcoming Events

"CGSUNY Guitar Soirée Sunday".

Please keep in mind that this schedule is not written in stone and modifications may take place from time-to-time.

All get togethers will take place at 5:00 p.m. unless otherwise stated in follow-up emails:

CHECK OUT THE FESTIVALS / EVENTS PAGE FOR MORE INFO

Recent Activities

 

The Classical Guitar Society of Upstate New York and SUNY Oneonta present

The 25th Annual Classical Guitar Fall Festival
Saturday October 18th

Featuring Two Outstanding Soloists in Concert

 

4PM SHANE BUCCI
INCLUDED WITH FALL FEST ADMISSION
SUNY ONEONTA FINE ARTS M201
108 RAVINE PKWY ONEONTA NY 13820
Shane Bucci
7:30PM BILL KANENGISER : $25
Member Price : $15
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
66 CHESTNUT STREET ONEONTA NY 13820
Tariq Harb

FALL FEST GENERAL ADMISSION : $30 (EXCLUDING 7:30 CONCERT)
FALL FEST FREE TO CGSUNY MEMBERS (EXCLUDING 7:30 CONCERT)
FALL FEST FREE WITH STUDENT ID (ALL EVENTS)

 
OCTOBER 18 & 19
 

Festival activities include Member Performances, Lectures, Ensemble Reading, Masterclasses, Silent Auction, and more!


2025 Food Pantry Benefit in Unadilla


Lesh Concert Photos


 

CGSUNY Bylaws
 

Reminders for All

Membership dues of $30 for 2026 - 2027 are due. Your financial support helps CGSUNY cultivate an appreciation for the Classical Guitar. It also helps us provide educational outreach, local concerts and events like the Fall Festival. CLICK HERE FOR A CAMPUS MAP OF SUNY ONEONTA

Carolyn Rifenbark