EDUCATION
GSSO is proud to partner with Britt Education to jointly produce and present educational outreach presentations and guitar concerts in Southern Oregon.
Our organizations believe that guitar is one of the most culturally fluid and versatile instruments in the world. The guitar is a low cost “gateway” instrument for students of all socioeconomic backgrounds and musical interests. The versatility of the guitar in every musical style can serve as a bridge between popular and classical music. Residency artists jointly selected by GSSO and Britt Education create meaningful experiences for students by performing and teaching in local classrooms.
Our first residency artist was Jâca, a dynamic classical guitar and clarinet duo that visited southern Oregon in March 2023. Click here to check out samples of Jaca’s residency with local students!
Our second 2023 artists were guitarists René Izquierdo and Elena Chekan, who visited schools in our community from November 7 – 9th, and appeared in concert at SOU Music Recital Hall on November 11th.
Our first 2024 outreach artist was the acclaimed classical guitar and cello duo “Boyd Meets Girl”, who visited classrooms the week for March 11th.
Artist Testimonial:
“We had a wonderful and moving experience working with GSSO and Brittfest’s residency program. We often provide outreach in addition to concerts, but this particular residency was extra meaningful. In addition to being very well-organized, we were accompanied to each school visit, and were matched with relevant schools and programs so we were able to offer our educational outreach to the students who most benefited from interacting with us. We had some of the best engagement we’ve ever seen, and walked away from each school buzzing from the comments from students. It’s a wonderful feeling to know you have impacted a young student, and we felt like we connected with and inspired various students at each school we visited. Thank you GSSO and Brittfest!”
– Jaxon Williams, Jâca
Britt Education & Engagement Testimonial:
Residency Rewind — Jâca
“We had a stupendous time with Jâca earlier this month, visiting music classes at Phoenix, Crater, and Grants Pass High Schools. Students were riveted to the presentations and asked many insightful questions of the artists. Guitar Society of Southern Oregon also presented them in a scintillating concert at Grizzly Peak Winery. We can’t wait to have this duo back in our valley!”
– Britt Bee newsletter
