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Description
- When: August 13–16, 2026
- Where: Capilano University, 2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver, BC V7J 3H5
- Cost: Concert tickets $35 (seniors/students) / $45 (general); Two-Concert Pass $60 (seniors/students) / $80 (general); VCGS members save 15%
- Hosted by: Vancouver Classical Guitar Society & Capilano University
Now in its 7th year, the Vancouver Classical Guitar Festival returns to Capilano University for four days of workshops, masterclasses, and concerts built around a single instrument. This year's headline guest is legendary Argentine composer-guitarist Maximo Diego Pujol, joined by a lineup of celebrated B.C. guitarists spanning classical, flamenco, and Brazilian traditions.
Founded in 2020 by guitarist Luis Angel Medina, the festival has grown into an annual gathering point for guitarists across Metro Vancouver and beyond, drawing past faculty from around the world including Iliana Matos, Daniel Bolshoy, Marc Teicholz, Ben Verdery, Jeffrey McFadden, and Jorge Caballero.
What to Expect at the Festival
Workshops & Masterclasses for Every Level
In-person sessions run throughout the week, designed for guitarists from complete beginners to aspiring professionals. Led by Maximo Diego Pujol and the festival's local faculty, the program blends technical development with ensemble playing in a shared, hands-on learning environment.
Two Faculty Concerts
The festival's public concerts showcase both its international guest artist and its home-grown talent, giving audiences a chance to hear the week's teaching put into performance.
Guitar Ensemble
Participants have the opportunity to play together as part of a festival orchestra, led this year by guest ensemble director Natasha Pashchenko.
Festival Faculty
Maximo Diego Pujol
This year's headlining guest, a legendary composer-guitarist joining the festival for workshops, masterclasses, and a solo concert.
Luis Angel Medina
Festival Founder and Director, Capilano University instructor, and a nationally acclaimed classical guitarist.
Lucida Zhao
Festival Co-Director, educator, pianist, and musicianship specialist.
Michael Kolk
One of Canada's finest, most in-demand classical guitarists, recognized internationally for his recordings, duos, and orchestral collaborations. Also teaches guitar at Vancouver Community College.
Iminah Kani
Vancouver Island's flamenco guitarist and a favorite on the flamenco festival circuit, drawing inspiration from Paco de Lucia.
Vinny Linhares
Award-winning guitarist specializing in the rich, syncopated harmonies and vibrant styles of Brazilian guitar.
Natasha Pashchenko
Guest artist at the Edmonton Guitar Seminar and Ensemble Director for the 2026 Northwest Guitar Festival, leading this year's festival orchestra.
Concert Schedule
Friday, August 14 — 7:30 PM
A celebration of the festival's own globally influenced B.C. guitarists, featuring duos by Michael Kolk (classical) and Luis Angel Medina, Iminah Kani (flamenco), and Vinny Linhares (Brazilian).
Saturday, August 15 — 7:30 PM
A full solo concert featuring headlining guest Maximo Diego Pujol.
Tickets & Passes
- Single concert: $35 seniors/students, $45 general admission
- Two-Concert Pass (covers both Friday and Saturday): $60 seniors/students, $80 general admission
- VCGS members: 15% discount on tickets and passes via the Members Page
- All concert tickets are non-refundable but transferable, and a tax receipt is available for those who wish to treat their ticket as a charitable donation to the Vancouver Classic Guitar Society
Plan Your Visit
- Event: Vancouver Classical Guitar Festival 2026
- Date: August 13–16, 2026
- Time: Concerts at 7:30 PM (Friday & Saturday); workshops run throughout the week
- Location: Capilano University, 2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver, BC V7J 3H5
- Admission: Concert tickets from $35; workshops and masterclasses included with festival registration
- Website: vancouverguitar.org
Whether you're picking up a guitar for the first time or looking to study under a world-class faculty, the Vancouver Classical Guitar Festival offers a rare, immersive week for the instrument — capped off by two evenings of concerts open to anyone who just wants to listen.
