Classical guitarist Laurel Harned captivates audience at Redlands Forum

A rising talent from Redlands, Harned showcased the rich history of classical guitar with selections from the Baroque period to the 20th century.

Classical guitarist Laurel Harned captivates audience at Redlands Forum
Photo: Dave Card

REDLANDS, Calif. — Classical guitarist Laurel Harned took the stage at Esri auditorium on Feb. 11, mesmerizing a standing room only audience with a performance that spanned centuries of musical tradition.

A rising talent from Redlands, Harned showcased the rich history of classical guitar with selections from the Baroque period to the 20th century. Her skillful playing and deep musicality highlighted why she is gaining national recognition.

Harned began studying guitar at age 9 under Susan Graves and now trains with renowned guitarist Jack Sanders. Her accomplishments include first prize at the 2023 Denver International Youth Competition and semifinalist placements in prestigious competitions such as the Josephina P. Tuason International Guitar Competition and the James Stroud National Classical Guitar Competition.

In 2023, she attended the Celedonio Romero Guitar Institute at Oklahoma City University, where she studied with the Romero Quartet, performed in solo and ensemble settings, and participated in master classes. She has also earned top honors in the Certificate of Merit theory and performance exams and was invited to audition for the Music Teachers’ Association of California’s Young Artist Guild.

Classical Guitarist Laurel Harned Captivates Audience at Redlands Forum (Photo: Dave Card)

Harned has studied with world-renowned musicians, including Ana Vidović, Los Romeros, the Beijing Guitar Duo, Jonathan Leathwood, and Jason Vieaux. In October 2023, she was one of only six young musicians nationwide invited to perform in the Pre-College Guitar Virtuosos master class led by Manuel Barrueco at the Peabody Institute of Music.

Beyond her musical achievements, Harned enjoys teaching beginner students, backpacking, running, and helping on her family’s small farm. As a recipient of the Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award, she will travel to Spain next summer to study guitar, participate in festivals and competitions, and explore opportunities for further musical training.

The Redlands Forum, sponsored by Esri, the University of Redlands, and the University of Redlands Town & Gown, offers free programs that bring experts and community members together for engaging discussions on today’s most important topics. The goal is to spark conversation, inspire new ideas, and encourage innovation for a better future.

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