In 1994, the first South Bay Guitar Society concert series was presented in downtown San Jose, and two years later the society established itself as a non-profit organization; a move that opened the doors to a various funding opportunities. Over the years, the society has received grants and donations from a wide range of private and public supporters, including the City of San Jose’s Office of Cultural Affairs, Arts Council Silicon Valley, Community Foundation Silicon Valley and the California Arts Council, to name just a few.
Founded in 1986 by luthier Lester De Voe, the South Bay Guitar Society is dedicated to increasing public awareness of the arts, and in particular, the classical guitar. Through concerts, masterclasses, workshops, open mics and community outreach, the society brings classical guitar music to Bay Area audiences of all cultures, ages, abilities and economic background.
Now celebrating its 25th season, the SBGS – one of the most active guitar societies in the country – has established a reputation of excellence by presenting a steady stream of acclaimed local, national and international guitarists to the South Bay.
In celebration of the holiday season, the South Bay Guitar Society Quartet, featuring Ben Zussman, Scott Swink, Tom Gardin and Jerry Snyder, is playing a series of free, community concerts in the San Jose area. Featuring the compositions of a diverse range of artists including Celso Machado, Zequinha Abreu, Johnny Mercer and Chet Atkins, as well as several holiday tunes, the upcoming concerts showcase the wide reach of what the society calls “the world’s most popular instrument.”
South Bay Guitar Society free community concert schedule:
Tuesday, December 14, 6:30pm at Alamden Branch Library, 6445 Camden Ave, San Jose
Saturday, December 18, 3pm at Cambrian Branch Library, 1780 Hillsdale Ave, San Jose
Tuesday, December 21, 6:30pm at Santa Teresa Branch Library, 290 International Circle, San Jose
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