Player Spotlight: Rafael Elizondo

GSI is proud to host classical guitarist Rafael Elizondo, as he frequently stops by to perform on many of our most recent guitars that capture his attention. Rafael’s devotion to the instrument is clear by the way he performs for example on this 1862 Antonio de Torres guitar as well as on this 2014 Daniel Friederich. Elizondo is a world-class musician and friend of GSI; continue on to learn more about his achievements in the world of music.

Classical guitarist Rafael Elizondo is currently recognized as an important figure in Mexico’s music scene nationwide.

Rafael’s musical artistry and guitar prowess have evidently shown for many years as he’s won more than ten awards, including: First place in the ¨X Concurso Internacional de guitarra Simone Salmasso¨ Viareggio, Italy, 2001; Second place in the III Concorso Internazionale “ARTE A 6 CORDE,” Pavullo nel Frignano, Italy, 2007; 2nd Place in the Guitar Competition in Culiacan, Mexico, 2002; and 3^rd Place in the Guitar Competition of Paracho, Mexico, 2000.

Rafael began his guitar lessons early on with members of his own family. He later attended the University at the Escuela Nacional de Musica, UNAM, in Mexico City, where he studied with Juan Carlos Laguna, and he followed his university studies with further musical development under the instruction of Maestro Giulio Tampalini in Italy. Elizondo gained great insight into the guitar while in Italy and was able to further grow as a musician, performer, and overall artist.

With an extensive repertoire as a soloist and chamber musician, Rafael has developed an active career in performance. He has been a soloist with the Baja California Orchestra and has participated in many festivals, including: the Heitor-Villalobos Festival (Italy), Festival Arte a 6 Corde (Italy), Concert Season Brescia Chitarra 2007 (Italy), Acoustic Guitar Festival (California), New Mexico Guitar Festival, Festival Hispanoamericano de Guitarra, and he has also participated in live broadcasts and recordings for radio and television.

Apart from a flourishing music career, Elizondo is also a leading and inspiring teacher, who is very often invited to major Universities and guitar festivals in the U.S. and Mexico to impart high-level masterclasses and courses, designed to improve technique, interpretation and motivation.

Appreciated for his absolutely clear and well-defined and highly-precise technique, Rafael is frequently solicited to record videos and audio tracks for high-profile guitar stores as well as for master luthiers.

Rafael Elizondo plays Stephen Connor guitars.

RAFAEL ELIZONDO GUITAR DEMOS (view all)