CCM Student Success: Sweeping National Guitar Competitions

This year has been monumental for the students of the California Conservatory of Music (CCM). Demonstrating unparalleled talent and dedication, our students have achieved remarkable success in some of the nation’s most prestigious guitar competitions. They’ve set new standards and continue to showcase the exceptional quality of our classical guitar training.

Unprecedented Victory at the James Stroud Guitar Competition

In an extraordinary display of skill and excellence, four CCM students clinched the top four spots at the 2024 James Stroud Guitar Competition, held at the renowned Cleveland Institute of Music. Preston Hong, Micah Montgomery, Elle Davisson, and Hilbert Chen rose above the nation’s finest high school guitarists, securing over $20,000 in prizes and marking a historic moment for CCM.

From video submissions to dominating the semi-finals and finals, our students showcased their prowess and CCM’s influence. Elle Davisson won the grand prize, followed by Micah Montgomery, Hilbert Chen, and Preston Hong, highlighting the depth of talent at CCM.

James Stroud, the founder of the competition, praised the quality and character of our students, affirming, “The pre-college students of the California Conservatory of Music are some of the most advanced classical guitarists in the United States, of any age.” This sentiment was echoed by competition judge and composer Thomas Flippin, who noted that our students performed his composition at a level comparable to top-tier graduate students.

National Recognition and Media Coverage

Following their success, Cleveland Classical featured the story of our students’ achievements! KCBS Radio also covered the story, bringing well-deserved national attention to their hard work. The media exposure highlights CCM’s impactful music education program.

You can read more about their triumphs in Cleveland Classical’s detailed coverage here and listen to the KCBS story here!

Continued Success at the Guitar Foundation of America’s Competition

The accolades did not stop at the James Stroud competition. Elle Davisson and Preston Hong continued their winning streak at the Guitar Foundation of America’s XX International Youth Competition, Senior division. Elle won first place, and Preston secured third, competing against some of the most promising young guitarists in the world. The GFA Competition is known for launching careers through organized recital tours and exposure. It provided another platform where our students shone brilliantly. This further affirmed the high standards of musical excellence fostered at CCM.

Final Thoughts

This year’s achievements highlight the California Conservatory of Music’s commitment to nurturing young talent. They showcase our efforts to provide opportunities for excellence on both national and international stages. We are incredibly proud of Preston, Micah, Elle, Hilbert, and all our students. They continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in youth guitar performance.

Our heartfelt thanks go to the faculty, families, and all who support our young musicians on their journey. As we celebrate these remarkable successes, we are inspired and excited for what the future holds for our students and for the CCM community.

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