Columbus, GA – The 27th annual Guitar Symposium at Columbus State University is set to welcome back two accomplished Schwob School of Music alumni, Leonela Alejandro and Dragoș Ilie, February 28 and March 1. The event promises a vibrant showcase of guitar artistry, education, and international collaboration.
The symposium has evolved into a cornerstone event for guitarists and enthusiasts alike, attracting participants from across the globe. This year’s festival will feature a diverse program including guest artist concerts, intensive masterclasses, insightful lectures, and a competitive international competition spanning skill levels from middle school to professional.
Dr. Andrew Zohn, the Jo & George Jeter Distinguished Chair in Guitar and artistic director of the symposium, emphasized the event’s core mission. “At its core, the symposium is about connection,” Zohn explained. “Through concerts, masterclasses, lectures and informal conversations, the guitar—often viewed as a personal instrument—becomes a shared experience that transcends cultures and generations.” Attendees will hail from the United States, Asia, South America, and Europe, fostering a truly international atmosphere.
Alumni Return to the Stage
Among the featured performers are Leonela Alejandro, a 2023 graduate of Columbus State, and Dragoș Ilie, who earned his degree in 2019. Both musicians are returning to the Schwob School of Music stage where they honed their skills under Zohn’s guidance. Alejandro, a 25-year-old native of Puerto Rico, has quickly gained international recognition for her expressive playing. She recently earned the Rose Augustine Grand Prize in the 2024 Guitar Foundation of America International Concert Artist Competition, a testament to her technical mastery and artistic talent, as noted in multiple sources including the Leonela Alejandro official website and Tidewater Classical Guitar.
Ilie, 29, originally from Romania, was a Woodruff Scholar during his undergraduate studies at Columbus State. The Woodruff Scholarship provides full tuition benefits to outstanding musical talent. He has since performed extensively worldwide, collaborating with orchestras and ensembles and earning accolades in numerous competitions. His achievements highlight the quality of training offered at the Schwob School of Music, according to Zohn.
A Lineup of Renowned Guitarists
Alejandro and Ilie will be joined by a stellar lineup of guest artists, including The Kossler Duo – brothers Adam and John Kossler – known for their polished ensemble playing and creative transcriptions. Latin Grammy Award-winning guitarist David Russell will also perform, bringing his internationally acclaimed artistry to the symposium. Russell is celebrated for his warm tone and deep musical insight, according to the event details.
The symposium isn’t solely focused on performance. The educational components, structured by experience level, will provide opportunities for musicians of all ages and abilities to learn from professionals and connect with fellow guitarists.
All symposium events will be held at the Schwob School of Music on the university’s RiverPark Campus in downtown Columbus. For those unable to attend in person, all events will be livestreamed free of charge on the Schwob School of Music’s Facebook and YouTube pages. A full schedule of events, including competition details and registration fees, is available on the university’s website.
The Columbus State University Guitar Symposium continues to solidify its reputation as a premier event for guitarists and music lovers, fostering a vibrant community and showcasing the talents of both emerging and established artists. The return of alumni Alejandro and Ilie underscores the lasting impact of the Schwob School of Music’s training and its commitment to nurturing the next generation of guitar virtuosos.
As the symposium approaches, organizers anticipate another successful event, further cementing Columbus State University’s position as a leading center for guitar education and performance. Share your thoughts on the upcoming symposium in the comments below.
