Meet the Professor

Charles Suovanen

EDUCATION
B.M. Music Major with emphasis on performance. California State University, Northridge.
M.A. Music. California State University, Northridge.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND
The Classical Guitar is my specialty. I began to play decades ago, and I still have that same desire to continue to play and improve. Beyond that, it has always brought me great joy to pass along to students the many points that have been gleaned from others over the years.

My primary teachers were the faculty at CSUN during my years there. They included Dr. Ronald Purcell, Mr. Larry Munson and others. Further, those teachers encouraged me to reach out to study with notable concert performers from around the world. This I did, and as a result, absorbed a broad perspective of guitar performance and overall musicianship. Some of these additional teachers include; Carlos Barbosa-Lima, Alirio Diaz, Elliot Fisk, Robert Guthrie and Oscar Ghiglia. Other notables whom I performed for in the master class setting include John Mills, John Duarte, Alice Artz and Manuel Barrueco.

One wonderful highlight in my student career was being selected from among classmates to perform for the great Spanish guitarist Andres Segovia. Unfortunately I had only one day to prepare! The audience included the college president, newspaper photographers, many faculty, fellow students and other guitarists of note. In the end, the Maestro approved of my somewhat nervous performance, and to my surprise, asked to hear an additional composition. I expected only to get partially into the first piece! Yes, I remember well what it is like to be a student under pressure!

Why should you study the guitar at LACC? I’m positive that when you study here, for professional growth or for your own growth as a person, you will greatly benefit by the absorption of course material and association with our outstanding students, staff and faculty.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Feel free to e-mail me for additional information regarding classes and College sponsored recitals.  Classes fill up fast, so remember to enroll several weeks before the semester actually starts to ensure a spot for yourself in the courses you want.  See you in class!