Wayne Wilkinson is a renowned classical guitarist who has made a name for himself in the world of music. Born in 1953 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Wilkinson grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a singer. From a young age, Wilkinson was exposed to music and began playing the guitar at the age of 12. Wilkinson's early musical education was primarily self-taught. He learned to play by listening to recordings of his favorite guitarists and practicing for hours on end. However, he soon realized that he needed formal training to take his skills to the next level. He began taking lessons from local guitar teachers and eventually enrolled in the music program at the University of Colorado. During his time at the University of Colorado, Wilkinson studied under the renowned classical guitarist Ricardo Iznaola. Under Iznaola's tutelage, Wilkinson honed his skills and developed a deep appreciation for classical music. He also began performing in local concerts and recitals, gaining valuable experience and exposure. After graduating from the University of Colorado, Wilkinson continued his musical education by studying with some of the world's most renowned guitarists, including Oscar Ghiglia, Pepe Romero, and Manuel Barrueco. He also attended master classes and workshops, further refining his technique and expanding his repertoire. Throughout his career, Wilkinson has performed in some of the world's most prestigious concert halls and festivals. He has appeared as a soloist with numerous orchestras, including the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, the Colorado Springs Philharmonic, and the Pueblo Symphony Orchestra. He has also performed in chamber music ensembles and as a soloist in recitals. One of Wilkinson's most notable performances was his appearance at the Aspen Music Festival in 1980. He was invited to perform as a soloist with the festival orchestra, and his performance was met with critical acclaim. The Aspen Times praised his "virtuosic technique" and "sensitive musicality," and he was hailed as one of the festival's standout performers. In addition to his performances, Wilkinson has also received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. He has won several international guitar competitions, including the Guitar Foundation of America International Solo Competition and the Francisco Tárrega International Guitar Competition. He has also been awarded grants and fellowships from organizations such as the National Endowment for the Arts and the Colorado Council on the Arts. Despite his many accomplishments, Wilkinson remains humble and dedicated to his craft. He continues to perform and teach, sharing his love of music with audiences and students around the world. His passion for classical guitar and his commitment to excellence have made him one of the most respected and admired musicians of his generation.

More....