The Columbus Guitar Society, founded in 1992 by a dedicated group of amateur and professional classical guitarists, has grown to become one of the country’s most successful guitar societies. Under the leadership of Artistic Director, Eugene Braig, the CGS is the only organization to offer comprehensive programming for the classical guitar in the Central Ohio region. CGS brings a variety of activities to the public:
- A professional concert series featuring world-renowned international stars. The season offers a handful of amazing concerts between October and May. Click here for details.
- The CGS Members’ Ensemble prepares two concerts each season. Click here for details.
- Amateur players meet up and entertain the cafe crowd at 1 p.m. on the third Saturday of every month at the Starbucks Coffee, 2450 East Main Street, in Bexley. Click here for details.
OUR NEXT EVENTS:
Virgile Barthe
1st Prize Winner of the 2025 Guitar Foundation of America International Concert Artist Competition
Sunday, October 18, 2026 3:00 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Church of Columbus
Columbus, Ohio
Buy Tickets
Call 614-561-9204 for additional info
Virgile Barthe is widely regarded as one of the most promising emerging artists in classical guitar today. Internationally recognized for both his technical command and musical maturity, he rose to global prominence after winning the 2025 Guitar Foundation of America International Concert Artist Competition and receiving the Rose Augustine Grand Prize, one of the highest honors in the guitar world.
Born in France, Barthe began his musical studies at the Toulouse Conservatory before being admitted at age seventeen to the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris. There he pursued advanced studies with renowned guitarist Judicaël Perroy while also benefiting from the guidance of distinguished musicians including Gabriel Bianco and Olivier Chassain.
Barthe’s career has advanced rapidly through a series of major international achievements. He earned First Prize at the Maurizio Biasini International Competition, leading to a concerto appearance with the Sinfonieorchester Basel, and subsequently captured top honors at the Koblenz International Guitar Competition and the Guitar Foundation of America International Concert Artist Competition.
What sets Barthe apart is not only his impressive list of awards but also the breadth of his artistic vision. His recital programs move seamlessly from Baroque masterpieces to contemporary works, reflecting an uncommon curiosity and commitment to musical exploration. He is also active as an arranger, bringing fresh perspectives to repertoire while maintaining a deep respect for the traditions of the instrument.
As the newest Guitar Foundation of America laureate, Barthe is now appearing before audiences throughout North America and beyond. His performances combine technical brilliance, thoughtful interpretation, and a distinctive musical voice that has already established him as one of the most compelling young artists of his generation.
Columbus Guitar Society 