Christopher Parkening is one of the world's preeminent virtuosos of the classical guitar, renowned for his elegant artistry and sophisticated technique that elevate the interpretations of guitar repertoire. Born on December 14, 1947, in Los Angeles, California, Parkening was a child prodigy and by his teens, he was already a master of the strings, largely influenced by the legendary Andrés Segovia. He rapidly gained prominence, carving out a niche for himself in the classically dominated landscapes of music with his profound interpretations of Bach and other composers.

Throughout his illustrious career, Parkening has made significant contributions to the classical guitar genre both as a performer and educator. His discography includes "Grace Like A River," an already classic anthology celebrated for its sublime expression, and "Christopher Parkening Celebrates Segovia," which is a tribute to his mentor and the father of the modern classical guitar movement. His collaboration with soprano Kathleen Battle in "Pleasures of their Company" showcases his versatility and ability to transcend musical genres. Accolades and honors—such as Grammy nominations—adorn his path, and his scholarly pursuits have shaped many through his teaching, particularly at Pepperdine University where he imparted knowledge to future generations. Above all, Parkening's legacy endures through recordings like "Christopher Parkening: The Great Recordings," which crystallize the beauty and emotion he drew from six strings, setting a benchmark for excellence in classical guitar performance.

Genres

Classical Guitar

Latest Release

Vicaldi: Musik für Gitarre, Laute & Mandoline

Antonio Vivaldi•

Fabio Biondi•

Anthony Bailes•

Christopher Parkening

Album - 18 Tracks - Released July 15, 2011