BEckett cerón, classical guitar

James stroud classical guitar competition 2025

Beckett Cerón at Cleveland Institute of Music for the Cleveland Classical Guitar Festival in June 2025. Beckett Cerón semi-finalist in the James Stroud Classical Guitar Competition
Beckett Cerón preparing to take the stage at the Stroud Classical Guitar Competition, June 2025, Cleveland Institute of Music

JUNE 2025: I was a semi-finalist at the James Stroud Classical Guitar Competition. I spent 4 days at the Cleveland Classical Guitar Festival with 14 other amazing semi-finalists, hanging out, listening to legends and playing some great music. We all prepared a beautiful set piece, titled Philosopher’s Path, composed by James Piorkowski. It was awesome to hear so many great guitarists in one place. I had the opportunity to do a masterclass with the incredible Jason Vieaux. It was an awesome 4 days and I am grateful to Mr. Stroud, Mr. Kelly and Mr. Vieaux for these experiences. Thank you!

Beckett Cerón in a Masterclass with Jason Vieaux. Cleveland Classical Guitar Festival, James Stroud Classical Guitar Competition 2025. Semi-finalist

VOLTERRA PROJECT, July 2025

I spent two weeks studying with the magnificent Antigoni Goni, Maarten Vandenbemden and Luca Islolani in Volterra, Italy—the heart of Tuscany. It was transformative in so many ways. Growth comes through new experiences and new connections. Thank you to everyone who made this possible!

A guitar case leaning against a weathered brick and concrete wall, next to a small wooden bench with a water bottle, a red cloth, and a small black mesh bag on it.

My partners in music crimes.

A young man in black clothing playing an acoustic guitar outside in front of a rustic, old building with a wooden door and stone accents.

Sharing music at a peaceful evening performance.

Group of people socializing outdoors near an old building with green window shutters, some sitting and others standing, during sunset

Guitarists hang out.

“Segovia called the guitar an orchestra.

Julian Bream said it was 'life itself.'

Masters who defined what the guitar could be.

I'm learning it might also be something else—a way to gather people, build connections and share live music where it's needed most."

.”

-Beckett Cerón, 2025